Tofu Tikka Masala

Roasted tofu tikka dunked in rich and creamy gravy, has to be one of the most feel-good dishes out there!
Tofu cubes are marinated in yogurt and spices, and then fried until golden-brown and crisp. The tikkas are then bathed in a bright-orange saucy gravy that is made with a tomato-onion paste, warmly spiced with slight hints of sweetness.
This dish is a robust of flavours and aroma, and luscious in every bite!

INGREDIENTS:-

(For the tofu marinade)

• 400g tofu
• 1 cup vegan yogurt
• 1/2 tbsp red chilli powder (or to taste)
• 1/2 tbsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasurimethi)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 4 tbsp chickpea flour

(For the gravy)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp ginger paste
• 1 tbsp garlic paste
• 1/2 tbsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tbsp garam masala or tandoori masala
• 3 tomatoes
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1 cup onions, chopped
• 1/2 capsicum, diced
• 2 tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:-

(For the tofu tikka)

• Gently press down the tofu with a paper towel to drain out the excess liquid.
• Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
• To a mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients and add the tofu cubes, tossing to coat them evenly. Cover with a lid and let it soak for about 30 minutes.
• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated tofu cubes and cook on all sides until they turn golden-brown.
• Transfer to a plate.

(For the gravy)

• Soak cashews in a bowl of hot water for 15 minutes
• To a blender, add the tomatoes, onion and cashews. Blend to a smooth puree.
• In the same heated skillet, add cumin seeds, capsicum, ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
• Add the tomato-onion-cashew paste and stir in coriander powder and garam masala. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the gravy starts to thicken.
• Add the tofu tikka cubes along with coriander leaves and mix well. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• Serve hot with naan.