Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (2024)

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Chickpea Tikka Masala – Dinner is on with this flavorful & saucy Indian-inspired vegan tikka masala recipe! It’s lusciously creamy and easy to make right at home in one pan with simple ingredients!

Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (1)

This curry dish is another great addition to the vegan Indian recipes here on TSV! I don’t have nearly enough of them yet, but here’s one more and I know you’re going to enjoy it!

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Why We Love This Recipe!

  • It’s all about the sauce and spices here, you’ll love how incredibly saucy and flavorful it is!
  • This chickpea tikka masala comes together in under an hour, which most of the time it’s just simmering away on the stove while you relax.
  • It’s a perfect comfort food served with rice, cilantro lime rice, quinoa or with a side of vegan naan bread.
  • You can easily customize it by adding cauliflower florets, diced sweet potatoes and/or carrots for an even heartier, veggie packed meal.

Recipe adapted from Deb of Smitten Kitchen.

This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosurehere.

Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (2)

Ingredient Notes

In this recipe, we’ll make a delicious tomato curry sauce with chickpeas for a warm and comforting Indian Chickpea Curry.

Here’s everything you will need, including ideas on substituting ingredients:

  • Chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans).Use 2 cans or 3 cups fresh cooked.
  • Tomato. Use canned diced tomatoes for ease, or 4 – 5 ripe tomatoes, diced. If you don’t care for chunks of tomato, use 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes.
  • Onion. The original recipe calls for 2 onions, but I found 1 large onion a little more favorable. Use 2 if you prefer.
  • Garlic. Feel free to adjust the garlic to your taste.
  • Ginger.Fresh minced or grated ginger adds a nice zing.
  • Cumin Seeds. You can pick up a package of whole cumin seeds for a reasonable price in the Mexican section of your local grocery store, or you can find them bottled in the general spice section.
  • Garam Masala. Literally means warm spices, and is a blend of Indian spices such as coriander, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, and cloves. It’s a wonderful blend that gives the dish so much flavor.
  • Turmeric. This yellow aromatic spice adds another layer of flavor.
  • Cayenne. Adjust the amount to your liking. I think 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne is a safe amount, but if you love heat use up to 1 teaspoon.
  • Coconut Milk. Full or low-fat.
  • Tomato Paste.
  • Oil.I’ve used light flavored olive oil, but coconut oil or your favorite oil will work. To make this oil-free, simply use 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth when sauteeing.
  • Salt. My favorite salt of all time is this Himalayan pink salt which contains essential minerals and trace elements that other salts don’t offer.
Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (3)

How To Make Chickpea Tikka Masala

Prepping the onions, ginger, and garlic is the hardest part, the rest is easy, requiring stirring occasionally and then a nice simmer.

Here’s a simplified rundown of the steps involved (note – the full printable recipe instructions are at the bottom of the post):

  • Saute the onions and cumin seeds in oil or water/broth, until onions are browned around the edges.
  • Toss in the ginger and garlic, cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Stir in the spices and cook until nice and fragrant.
  • Pour in the tomatoes and cook until they breakdown a bit, about 4 minutes.
  • Add tomato paste, chickpeas and coconut milk, simmer, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes.

And now you’re ready to serve with a grain of choice!

Tips For The Best Tikka Masala Sauce

  • Don’t rush it. For the most intense and delicious sauce you’ll want to really let the onions cook down bringing out the sweetness.
  • Simmer, don’t boil. Make sure to simmer the masala over low heat to avoid the coconut milk from curdling.
  • Save the leftovers. Leftover chickpea tikka masala tastes phenomenal the next day because the spices have more to develop overnight.
Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (4)

How To Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Leftovers will keep for 5 – 6 days in the refrigerator, stored in a covered container.
  • Freezer: Chickpea Tikka Masala freezes well for up to 2 – 3 months! My favorite way to freeze soup is in these freezer safe meal prep containers. You can also freeze larger portions in large ziplock bags.
  • Reheat: Simply re-warm on the stovetop or the microwave. It makes a great meal prep for the week with homemade Vegan Naan on the side for swiping up the juices.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a grain such as basmati rice, cilantro lime rice, brown rice or quinoa.
  • Pair with a side of vegan naan.
  • Add fresh toppings like sliced tomatoes and fresh chopped cilantro.
Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (5)

More Easy Recipes!

  • 30-Minute Chana Masala
  • West African Peanut Stew
  • Moroccan Pumpkin + Chickpea Stew
  • Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice

Let me know if you make this chickpea tikka masala recipe!Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.

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CHICKPEA TIKKA MASALA

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 51 reviews

Dinner is on with this flavorful Indian inspired Chickpea Tikka Masala recipe! It’s lusciously creamy and easy to make right at home in one pan with simple ingredients!

  • Author: Julie | The Simple Veganista
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 40 min
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Entree
  • Method: Stovetop, Simmer
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Indian

Ingredients

Units Scale

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or 1/4 cup water/broth
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 inch piece of ginger, minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander, optional
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric
  • 1 heaping teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/21 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/2 teaspoon mineral salt
  • 2 cans (14oz) diced tomatoes, with juices (or 4 tomatoes chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cans (14oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15oz.) coconut milk (full or low fat – cream is ok too)

To Serve

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • grain of choice (rice, quinoa, couscous)
  • homemade vegan naan

Instructions

In a large pot, heat oil or water over medium heat, add onions and cumin seeds, cook for 5 – 7 minute, until onions are browned around the edges. Add the ginger and garlic, cook 1 to 2 minutes more. Add the garam masala, turmeric, garam masala, cayenne and cook for 1 – 2 two minutes, or until nice and fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook for 4 minutes, until they breakdown a bit. Add tomato paste, chickpeas and coconut milk, stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Simmer, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Serve with rice, cilantro lime rice, quinoa, couscous, or pair with vegan naan.

Serves 6

Notes

Optional add-ins: For a veggie filled meal add in one or more of the following with the chickpeas.

  • 1 sweet potato, diced into 1/4 – 1/2 inch cubes
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup sliced carrots

How To Store

  • Refrigerator: Store in covered containers for 5 – 6 days..
  • Freezer: Store in the freezer for up to 2 – 3 months. I like storing in these freezer safe meal prep containers. You can also freeze larger portions in large ziplock bags.
  • Reheat: Re-warm on the stovetop or the microwave.

Recipe adapted from Deb of Smitten Kitchen.

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Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe - Vegan, Dairy Free & Oil-Free Option (2024)

FAQs

What is vegan tikka masala made of? ›

Whisk together vegan yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, and salt. Toss in pressed extra firm tofu that has been cut in to bite sized chunks or cubes or alternatively use vegan chicken and mix well.

What is the difference between tikka masala and chana masala? ›

Chana masala is typically simmered on the stove until the chickpeas are tender. In contrast, tikka masala involves marinating and grilling the meat before adding it to the sauce. In terms of flavor, chana masala has a mild, earthy flavor. It is not typically as spicy as tikka masala, which can be hot and spicy.

Can you use coconut milk instead of cream in tikka masala? ›

Chicken tikka masala is usually made with heavy cream, but I like to use coconut milk instead; its subtle sweetness works beautifully with the spices in the dish. Serve with steamed rice.

Does tikka masala contain almonds? ›

To make the sauce, heat 2 tbsp of the ghee or butter in a large shallow pan with a lid. Cook the onions for 15 mins over a medium heat until starting to brown. Add the spices and remaining garlic and ginger paste, and cook for 2 mins. Stir in the tomato purée, ground almonds, a pinch of sugar and vinegar.

Do vegans eat coconut milk? ›

Yes, coconut milk is vegan, making it a great alternative to dairy for those on a plant-based diet. So the next time you're in the mood for a co*cktail, you don't have to shun the Pina Coladas. Looking for some vegan milk recommendations?

What can I use instead of chicken in tikka masala? ›

We used cauliflower and chickpeas and I guarantee you won't miss the chicken, even Josh gives this version two thumbs up and he LOVES our chicken tikka masala. Even meat eaters will enjoy this vegetarian tikka masala.

Which is healthier butter chicken or tikka masala? ›

Regarding nutrition, Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala are high in calories, fat, and sodium. Butter Chicken has more fat and calories than Tikka Masala due to the use of cream and butter in the sauce. However, Tikka Masala has more sodium than Butter Chicken due to the use of canned tomato puree.

Are garam masala and tikka masala the same? ›

Tikka masala is pieces of meat or chicken marinated with spices, whereas garam masala is the term used for 'hot spices' that are not spicy but can keep the body warm. Garam masala powders may contain chilli and peppers, although they can be aromatic but are not spicy.

Is tikka masala healthy? ›

It's one of the most-ordered entrees at Indian joints. But like many Indian dishes that were originally low fat, the modern recipe for chicken tikka masala is anything but. An average portion has whopping 1,249 calories and 90.8 grams of fat. A lot of that comes from the ghee and heavy cream.

What is a substitute for yogurt in tikka masala? ›

Ingredients and substitues for the homemade tikka masala

Greek yogurt: If you don't like Greek yogurt, use plain whole milk. For a dairy-free option, you may use almond or coconut milk. Fresh lemon juice: Do not use botteled lemon juice unless you have no other choice. Garlic and ginger: use fresh, not powder.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream in tikka masala? ›

Depends on what taste you're trying to achieve with yogurt. If it is a sour taste you want, you can use tomatoes instead of yogurt. If you are looking to make the curry mildly spicy and creamy, you may use milk/cream instead. If you like to just make the curry mild, you may use coconut milk.

Is heavy cream or coconut milk better for tikka masala? ›

Normally heavy cream is used in tikka masala, but coconut milk is the perfect substitute and I actually like it here better than cream.

How do restaurants make curry so creamy? ›

The actual sweetness and creaminess of such curries meanwhile, usually comes from fried onions and either cashews and/or dairy products. Instead of (or in addition to) onion, ground coconut may be used. White poppy seeds and/or watermelon seeds are also used in some creamy sauces.

Is tikka masala truly Indian? ›

The origin of the dish is not certain, but many sources attribute it to the South Asian community in Great Britain; some sources also cite Glasgow as the city of origin. Chicken tikka masala may derive from butter chicken, a popular dish in the northern Indian subcontinent.

Why is tikka masala so red? ›

Tikka Masala can be made red with the use of Kashmiri red chilly paste or powder. It adds good colour to any gravy. It's red food coloring. That's what they use in the Indian restaurants.

What is tikka masala sauce made of? ›

Tikka masala is a tomato and cream (either in the form of heavy cream, yogurt or cashews) based sauce with lots of traditional Indian spices, including ginger, turmeric and red chili powder (to give it that quintessential orange-hue), garam masala, coriander and cumin. It is slightly sweet and earthy in flavor.

What is plant-based chicken tikka? ›

Ingredients for Vegan Chicken Tikka - Tomato, Onion, Water, Vegetable Oil, Soya, Chilli Kashmiri, Salt, Ginger, Garlic, Chilli Powder, Veg Broth, Sugar, Garam Masala, Coriander Powder, Cumin Seed, Turmeric Powder. Ingredients for Rice - Water, Basmati Rice, Salt.

What Indian sauces are vegan? ›

  • Balti Curry Sauce. 475g Pot. £4.50.
  • Dhansak Curry Sauce. 475g Pot. £4.50.
  • Jalfrezi Curry Sauce. 475g Pot. £4.50.
  • Rogan Josh Curry Sauce. 475g Pot. £4.50.
  • Malay Curry Sauce. 475g Pot. £4.50.
  • Thai Green Curry Sauce. 475g Pot. £4.50.

Is masala usually vegan? ›

Common vegan-friendly North Indian curries are chana masala (chickpea curry in a ginger tomato garlic sauce), aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower in a ginger garlic turmeric sauce), and aloo matar (potatoes and peas in a spiced tomato sauce).

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