Tofu Tikka Masala

Step 1

Prepare the tofu: Wrap 1 block of tofu in several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and gently press out as much water as possible. Change the towels and press again. Do not squeeze so hard that the tofu breaks apart or loses its shape, but do try to press out a good amount of the water. Repeat with the second block. Cut into 1 to 1 1/2-inch pieces. In a large bowl, stir together the yogurt, ginger, garlic, coriander, garam masala, cumin, salt, and water. Add the tofu pieces and stir gently until they are evenly coated. Let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for longer (up to overnight).

Step 2

When ready to bake, place the racks in the upper and lower thirds of your oven and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly coat the paper with nonstick spray. Arrange the tofu pieces on the baking sheets in a single layer so that they are not touching one another (discard any extra marinade). Bake in the upper and lower thirds for 15 minutes, then remove the pans from the oven, flip the pieces over and return the pans to the oven, switching their positions on the upper and lower racks. Bake for 15 additional minutes, until tofu is deeply golden (see blog photos above). Set aside.

Step 3

While the tofu bakes, prepare the masala (sauce): Heat the coconut oil over medium low in a Dutch oven or similar sturdy, deep pot. Once hot, add the cauliflower, onion, ginger, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 minute, then increase the heat to medium and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, about 10 minutes. Do not let the onion brown—if it starts to turn brown, reduce the heat and continue cooking until soft. Add the tomato paste, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne. Cook and stir constantly for 30 seconds, until very fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to prevent the sauce from sticking, until it is thickened slightly, about 15 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the pan from the heat and let cool for 1 minute. Stir in the peas, then the 1/2 cup yogurt. Stir in the cooked tofu to warm through. Taste and add additional salt and pepper as desired. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve warm with naan bread or brown rice.