Butter Chicken Sauce Recipe Vegetarian Made Easy and Delicious

Butter chicken is a beloved comfort food known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce that perfectly balances spices and sweetness. However, traditional recipes rely heavily on chicken, which can leave vegetarians searching for a similarly indulgent alternative.

Luckily, you can enjoy the luscious flavors of butter chicken sauce without any meat by making a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying. This butter chicken sauce recipe vegetarian-friendly uses ingredients like cashew cream and plant-based butter substitutes to achieve that creamy texture and depth of flavor you crave.

It’s perfect for pairing with paneer, tofu, or your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile sauce for many dishes.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply want to try a lighter, plant-based twist on a classic, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with aromatic spices that will fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

From the first bite, you’ll appreciate the blend of tangy tomatoes, warming spices, and rich creaminess that makes butter chicken sauce a timeless favorite. So, grab your apron and get ready to whip up this delicious vegetarian butter chicken sauce that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian butter chicken sauce is a game-changer for anyone who loves Indian cuisine but prefers plant-based options. It captures the essence of the original dish with a few clever substitutions, offering a creamy, flavorful sauce without any dairy or meat.

The sauce is rich and velvety, thanks to cashew cream, which is a fantastic dairy alternative that adds both texture and subtle sweetness.

Not only is this recipe highly customizable, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins and vegetables, so you can get creative with your meals.

If you love the comforting taste of butter chicken but want to keep it vegetarian, this sauce is the perfect solution!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp plant-based butter (or regular butter if preferred)
• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup cashews, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 3/4 cup water (for blending cashews)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan or skillet
• Blender or food processor
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Bowl for soaking cashews

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashew cream: Soak the cashews in hot water for 15 minutes to soften. Drain and blend with 3/4 cup fresh water until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the plant-based butter and oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until soft and golden, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Toast the spices: Mix in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir constantly to toast the spices for about 1 minute, releasing their flavors without burning.
5. Add crushed tomatoes: Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
6. Incorporate cashew cream: Slowly stir in the cashew cream, blending it thoroughly with the tomato base. Cook for another 5 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Season the sauce: Add lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, balancing tanginess and sweetness.
8. Finish and garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Your vegetarian butter chicken sauce is now ready to serve!

Tips & Variations

For a richer sauce, add a splash of coconut milk or vegan cream at the end.

You can swap cashew cream with almond or oat cream if you prefer. For added texture and protein, toss in cubes of paneer, tofu, or roasted vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes once the sauce is ready.

If you like it spicier, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a smoky twist, try using smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke.

To make this recipe nut-free, substitute cashew cream with thick coconut cream and omit the soaking step.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian butter chicken sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed basmati rice or fragrant jasmine rice for a classic meal.

You can also enjoy it with warm naan bread or roti to soak up the creamy sauce.

For a complete vegetarian feast, pair this sauce with grilled paneer or tofu cubes, roasted cauliflower, or sautéed mushrooms. It also works wonderfully as a dip or drizzle for roasted vegetable platters.

If you’re in the mood to try more delicious recipes, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the delightful Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes. For a sweet finish, don’t miss the Lemon Straws Recipe!

Conclusion

This vegetarian butter chicken sauce recipe brings the rich, comforting flavors of traditional butter chicken into a plant-based realm without compromising on taste or texture. Using cashews as the creamy base and a blend of warming spices, you create a sauce that’s indulgent yet wholesome.

It’s a fantastic option for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a classic favorite in a new way.

Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this sauce suits a variety of dishes and occasions. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with your culinary skills, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Give it a try and savor the deliciousness that’s both comforting and kind to all diets.

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