I bet you cannot stop with just one once you try it. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a main course paired with an appropriate dish. Today, I’ll show you how to prepare this savory snack over the stovetop or using an air fryer. I agree to be sent email.
Try this for your next party and watch it disappear in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or something more substantial, this Tandoori Tofu recipe is sure to please!
Why this recipe works
This is a protein-packed and full-of-flavor appetizer that will win the crowd for sure. If you are a tofu lover or Indian food lover, then you must try this tofu tikka recipe. It’s not only easy to make but also very versatile. You can use it as a main course or as an appetizer. Tandoori starters are very popular for their delicious spice with an unmatched flavor. I made many tofu recipes like air fryer tofu nuggets and buffalo tofu, but this tandoori tofu was much more popular! My whole family liked it as a snack. The dish can be used to prepare another delicious recipe like the tikka masala curry.
Ingredients note
Firm or Extra firm tofu block: I got an extra firm block of tofu from Costco for this recipe. The firm version also works well. All other textures fall apart too easily for this recipe.Spices: I used tikka masala spice mix powder. This is something you can find online or in an Indian grocery store. If you don’t have tikka masala, use garam masala powder with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.Yogurt: I used plain unsweetened vegan yogurt. If you don’t have vegan yogurt, use coconut cream and lemon juice.Ginger and garlic paste: I used fresh grated and minced ginger and garlic.
Air fryer method
Press the tofu with a tofu press for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Cut it into 1-inch cubes. Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the spice ingredients in yogurt to prepare the marinade. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and toss well to get an even coating. Place all the tofu cubes in an air-tight container along with the leftover marinade or yogurt sauce. Refrigerate for 15- 30 minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 380 F. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes. Remove the basket, and spray some oil on top. Cook for another 5 minutes or until slightly charred around the edges. (optional) Spread them on a baking sheet or a wire tray to cool them before serving.
Stovetop method
Place a large pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes. Cook on both sides for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches. Serve warm, garnished with lime juice and chopped cilantro on top and a side of green chutney or tomato ketchup.
Serving suggestions
Serve Tandoori Tofu with some naan bread, roti, or pulao.You can also use it in your vegan tikka masala recipe.Serve it with sweet chutneys, chaat masala, or any dips.Serve it with a cold drink like mango lassi or strawberry lassi.
Storage
Leftover Tandoori Tofu can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer or oven before serving. You can also prepare this ahead of time for any recipe that uses the tandoor spice mix, like the tandoori tofu tikka recipe. Just let the tofu marinate in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Variations
Use toothpicks or wooden skewers to make Tandoori Tofu Kabobs.Add veggies like red onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms while marinating the tofu.Instead of tikka masala powder, you can use ¼ teaspoon of coriander powder, cumin powder, garlic, paprika, and onion powder.
Tips
You can place the marinated tofu directly on the air fryer basket and cook it if you do not have skewers. Make sure not to overcrowd, and spray some oil before cooking.Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes for the best results.Instead of cashew yogurt, you can use any plant-based yogurt.Do not forget to press the tofu for at least 15 minutes before marinating it to remove excess water.If you do not have a tofu press, you could wrap it in a kitchen towel and place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron skillet.The tandoori spice mix can be used to marinate veggies too.If your tofu tikka becomes dry after air frying, spray some oil on top and serve with yogurt dip or chutney.Adjust your cooking time if the tofu is marinated at room temperature.
More tofu recipes
Instant Pot Tofu Curry (Indian)How To Tell If Tofu Is Bad
Just subscribe to my newsletter for more delicious vegan recipes such as this sent directly to your inbox. Follow me on social media Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
📖 Recipe
