Vegan Butter “Chicken” with Tofu: A Plant-Based Twist
Are you a fan of the classic Butter Chicken dish but looking for a vegan and cruelty-free alternative? Look no further! This Vegan Butter “Chicken” with Tofu recipe offers a delicious plant-based twist on the traditional Indian favourite. By using tofu as a protein source and a blend of aromatic spices, coconut milk, and vegan butter, you can recreate the rich and creamy flavours of Butter Chicken without any animal products. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings for Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp vegan butter
– 1 tbsp garam masala
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
– Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Cube the tofu and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
– In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
– Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Spice it Up:
– Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for a minute to release their flavours.
4. Cook the Tofu:
– Add the cubed tofu to the pan and coat it well with the spice mixture. Allow the tofu to brown slightly on all sides.
5. Creamy Sauce:
– Pour in the coconut milk and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Finish with Flavours:
– Add the vegan butter, garam masala, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to incorporate the flavours and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
– Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat.
– Serve the Vegan Butter “Chicken” with Tofu over cooked rice or with naan bread.
– Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a pop of colour and added freshness.
Enjoy the Vegan Twist!
This Vegan Butter “Chicken” with Tofu recipe is a great way to enjoy the familiar flavours of Butter Chicken in a plant-based version. The creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender tofu come together to create a satisfying and flavourful dish that will please both vegans and non-vegans alike. Serve this dish at your next gathering or enjoy it as a comforting meal during the week. Indulge in the richness of this vegan twist on a classic Indian favourite!