Delectable Vegan Tikka Masala: A Rich and Creamy Delight

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 cup green peas
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice and 2 cups of water to a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Set aside.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it starts to soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine with the onion and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the spices become fragrant.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and red lentils to the pan. Stir well to combine with the onion and spice mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked and the sauce has thickened.
  5. Add the green peas to the pan and stir well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the peas are heated through. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Serve the tikka masala over the cooked basmati rice, garnished with fresh coriander.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the red lentils with chickpeas for a different protein option.
  • Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or cauliflower to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
  • Experiment with different spices such as coriander, cardamom, or cinnamon to customize the flavor profile.
  • If you prefer a creamier sauce, substitute the coconut milk with cashew cream or soy creamer.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure that the garam masala and other spice blends used are gluten-free certified.
  • Try using different types of rice like jasmine rice or brown rice for a nuttier flavor and chewier texture.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice or lime juice at the end for a tangy twist.
  • Garnish with toasted cashews or sliced almonds for added crunch.

Recipe overview

This Vegan Tikka Masala recipe is a plant-based take on the classic Indian dish. It's rich, flavorful, and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Made with wholesome ingredients like basmati rice, red lentils, and green peas, it's not only delicious but also healthy, packed with protein and fiber. The dish starts with a base of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger, to which a blend of aromatic spices is added. Diced tomatoes and coconut milk are then stirred in to create a creamy, savory sauce. Red lentils are simmered in this mixture until tender, and green peas add a pop of color and freshness. The tikka masala is served over fluffy basmati rice and garnished with fresh coriander for an added layer of flavor. Despite its complex taste profile, this recipe is straightforward to make and requires just one pan. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just a fan of delicious food, this Tikka Masala is sure to impress. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use regular rice instead of basmati rice?
    Yes, you can use regular rice if you don't have basmati rice on hand. However, keep in mind that basmati rice adds a unique flavor and aroma to the dish.
  2. Can I substitute another type of lentil?
    Yes, you can substitute red lentils with other varieties such as green or brown lentils. Just note that the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.
  3. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
    Yes, you can use canned lentils if that's what you have available. Just rinse them thoroughly before adding to the dish and adjust the cooking time accordingly as they are already cooked.
  4. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
    Yes, you can use frozen peas as a substitute for fresh peas. Just add them directly to the dish without thawing and cook until heated through.
  5. Can I adjust the spice level?
    Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your desired spice level. You can also omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - For cooking the basmati rice.
  • Large pan - For sautéing the onion and spices, and simmering the tikka masala sauce.
  • Spatula - For stirring and combining the ingredients in the pan.
  • Measuring cups - For accurately measuring the basmati rice, water, and lentils.
  • Chef's knife - For chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  • Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
  • Grater - For grating fresh ginger.
  • Can opener - To open the cans of diced tomatoes and coconut milk.
  • Serving bowls - For serving the tikka masala and rice.
  • Spoons - For scooping and serving the tikka masala and rice.
  • Garnish - Fresh coriander for garnishing the dish.

Origin stories

Tikka Masala, despite its Indian sounding name, is believed by many to have originated in Great Britain. There's a delightful story of its creation that's often told: It's said that the dish was invented in the 1970s when a British diner found his chicken curry to be too dry. The chef then improvised by adding some tomato soup to the curry along with a blend of spices, and thus, the Tikka Masala was born. Today, this dish is one of the most popular Indian dishes in the world but it's also considered by some as a classic British comfort food. So, whether you're in the heart of London or the bustling streets of Delhi, you're likely to find a version of this rich and tangy dish.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.