Tofu in Butter Chicken Style

Name: Tofu in Butter Chicken Style
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 450 g firm tofu (pressed and cubed); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 large onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp ginger (minced); 400 g canned tomatoes (pureed); 1 tbsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander powder; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

45 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Enjoy a vegetarian twist on the classic butter chicken using tofu, rich in flavour and perfect for any meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Butter chicken, or 'poulet au beurre', is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce and aromatic spices. This vegetarian version swaps the chicken for tofu, making it accessible to those who prefer a plant-based diet. The tofu absorbs the delicious flavours of the sauce, offering a satisfying taste that rivals the traditional dish. Tofu in Butter Chicken Style is a fantastic way to enjoy the indulgent spices without the meat. The creamy sauce, made with tomatoes, cream, and a blend of spices, coats the tofu beautifully, creating a dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

Instructions

Prepare the tofu

Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes.

Pro tip: Pressing tofu improves its texture by making it firmer and more absorbent.

Cook the tofu

Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure tofu is dry before frying to achieve a crispy texture.

Sauté aromatics

In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Pro tip: Lower the heat if garlic starts to brown too quickly to avoid bitterness.

Make the sauce

Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan, along with garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Pro tip: Use canned tomatoes for consistent texture and flavour.

Simmer the sauce

Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Pro tip: Simmering allows the spices to meld into the sauce.

Finish the dish

Stir in the heavy cream and add the cooked tofu back into the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the tofu is heated through. If using poultry instead of tofu, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part.

Pro tip: Adjust cream to your desired level of richness and creaminess.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Press tofu to remove excess moisture for a firmer texture.
Use canned tomatoes for a consistent sauce.
Adjust spices to taste for desired heat level.
Serve over basmati rice for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tofu poulet au beurre?

Tofu poulet au beurre is a vegetarian version of butter chicken, using tofu instead of chicken.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, replace the butter with a vegan alternative and use coconut milk instead of cream.

How long should I press the tofu?

Press the tofu for about 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.

What can I serve with tofu in butter chicken style?

Serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh cucumber salad.

How spicy is this dish?

The dish is mildly spicy. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tofu in Butter Chicken Style with basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the rich sauce. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavours will continue to develop, making leftovers even more delicious.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

14g

Protein

21g

Fat

Enjoy a succulent roasted chicken, expertly seasoned with herb butter for a perfect family dinner.

Medium125 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Food Storage · Spice Jars

ComSaf Spice Jars with Labels 4 oz 24 Pack Glass Container with Bamboo lids

$37.99

Kitchen Utensils · Cooking Spoons

Oillase Kitchen Utenails Set with Holder, Wooden Utensils for Cooking, Wood Utensil Natural Teak Wood Spoons for Cooking,Wooden Utensil Set with Spatula and Ladle (11)

$44.98

Pit Boss Grills

Universal Pellet Grill Cover – Medium (36"-45")

$29.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.