Butter Tofu Recipe Vegan: Creamy and Delicious Dish

Butter tofu is a delightful vegan twist on the classic Indian butter chicken, bringing rich, creamy, and savory flavors to your plant-based table. This recipe combines firm tofu with a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with a medley of spices and vegan butter, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this butter tofu recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something warm, tasty, and nourishing.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s packed with protein, easy to prepare, and pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even a fresh salad.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through each step to make your own restaurant-quality butter tofu at home, along with tips and variations to customize it to your liking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter tofu offers the luxurious creaminess of traditional butter chicken but without any animal products. The tofu soaks up the rich, spiced sauce, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and requires minimal hands-on time.

This recipe is:

• Vegan and gluten-free friendly
• Protein-rich thanks to tofu
• Customizable with your favorite spices and heat levels
• Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully

Ready to elevate your vegan cooking? Let’s dive into the ingredients and equipment you’ll need.

Ingredients

• 400g firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
• 3 tbsp vegan butter (such as Earth Balance)
• 1 tbsp oil (neutral like canola or sunflower)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup tomato puree (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1/2 cup coconut cream (for richness)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or another sweetener
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth (to adjust sauce consistency)

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater (for ginger)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Colander or tofu press (optional but recommended for pressing tofu)

Instructions

1. Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top (like a cast iron skillet) for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step helps the tofu absorb the sauce better.
2. Prepare the tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and pan-fry until golden and slightly crispy on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the vegan butter and once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add spices: Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their aroma.
5. Add tomato puree and sweetener: Pour in the tomato puree and stir well to combine. Add the maple syrup to balance the acidity. Let this simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Incorporate coconut cream: Stir in the coconut cream and mix thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add up to 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Return tofu to skillet: Gently fold the fried tofu cubes into the sauce, coating each piece well. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavors.
8. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper accordingly. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top just before serving.
9. Serve hot: Spoon your delicious butter tofu over steamed basmati rice or with warm vegan naan bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For best tofu texture, pressing is essential. If short on time, use extra-firm tofu and pat dry with paper towels.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh chopped green chilies for heat.
• Nutty twist: Blend in 2 tbsp cashew cream instead of coconut cream for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Vegetable boost: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas to add nutrition and texture.
• Oil-free option: Use vegetable broth to sauté the onions instead of oil for a lighter dish.
• Make it gluten-free: Confirm that your vegan butter and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Butter tofu pairs wonderfully with fragrant Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula for a fusion twist or simply serve it alongside steamed basmati rice and vegan naan for a classic Indian-inspired meal.

For a light meal, try butter tofu with a crisp cucumber salad or roasted vegetables. Leftovers reheat well and can be enjoyed as a protein-packed filling for wraps or stuffed in pita bread with fresh herbs.

Conclusion

This vegan butter tofu recipe is an absolute winner for anyone craving a creamy, flavorful dish without using dairy or meat. The blend of spices and the richness from the coconut cream and vegan butter create a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the tender tofu cubes.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its ease of preparation and flexible ingredients, you can customize this dish to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like our Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe to complement your culinary adventures.

Happy cooking and enjoy your wholesome, flavorful butter tofu!

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