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.

Ingredients

Servings

For the Tofu

For the Sauce

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.

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Tips & Tricks

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

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.