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Butter Tofu

Butter Tofu: A Comforting Vegan Delight You’ll Crave

Butter Tofu is a creamy, vegan alternative to Butter Chicken, bursting with flavor and perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Extra-Firm Tofu Press well for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Plain Unsweetened Nondairy Yogurt Substitute any non-dairy yogurt.
For the Marinade
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 inch Minced Ginger Fresh ginger is best.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Use fresh juice for best taste.
For the Sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Garam Masala Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric For color and earthiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Substitute with other spices if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri Chili Powder Use regular chili powder for less spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can use olive or peanut oil.
For the Base
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced for even cooking.
  • 1 can Canned Crushed Tomatoes Use high-quality brands.
  • 2 tablespoons Vegan Butter Can be replaced with more oil.
  • 1 cup Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream Any non-dairy cream works.
  • 1 tablespoon Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) Optional but recommended.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Sprinkle on top before serving.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Non-stick skillet
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by pressing the extra-firm tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. In a bowl, whisk together nondairy yogurt, minced garlic, minced ginger, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, kosher salt, and Kashmiri chili powder. Coat the tofu with this marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange the marinated tofu pieces, and bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for an additional 8-10 minutes until lightly charred.
  3. Alternatively, heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated tofu pieces in a single layer; cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, and sauté diced onion over medium heat until softened. Stir in minced garlic, minced ginger, and optional Kashmiri chili for 1-2 minutes. Mix in turmeric, garam masala, and ground cumin.
  5. Pour in canned crushed tomatoes, scrape any brown bits, and add a splash of water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes.
  6. Stir in vegan butter and coconut milk until creamy. Adjust salt as needed, sprinkle with kasuri methi, and fold in cooked tofu pieces. Simmer for a few minutes.
  7. Serve the Butter Tofu garnished with chopped cilantro and optional coconut milk drizzle, pairing well with basmati rice or vegan naan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 16gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Press tofu thoroughly for best results. Use quality canned tomatoes for a richer taste. Adjust spice levels as necessary for guests.

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