Oven Baked Vegan Tandoori Tofu Skewers Recipe
Today we are making a Oven Baked Vegan Tandoori Tofu Skewers Recipe! Tandoori tofu skewers are a plant-based twist on the classic Indian favorite, Paneer Tikka, where marinated tofu replaces the traditional paneer. The result is a deliciously smoky and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Indian street food but with a vegan-friendly approach. The marinated tofu cubes, infused with bold spices like tandoori masala and lime, are baked to crispy perfection in the oven, giving you a satisfying and hearty meal. If you’ve ever craved the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine but want something cruelty-free and easy to make at home, these skewers are a perfect choice.
One of the unique aspects of this recipe is the texture transformation that occurs when you press the tofu. By boiling the tofu and pressing it between paper towels, you eliminate excess moisture, allowing the tofu to absorb the marinade better. After resting in the fridge, the tofu takes on a chewy, paneer-like texture, making it a great meat substitute. You can also customize the vegetables used in the recipe, such as purple onions and red bell peppers, which add a burst of color and flavor when grilled alongside the tofu. Whether you’re serving these skewers at a summer BBQ, a cozy dinner, or as part of a weeknight meal, they’re sure to impress.
The oven-baked version of these vegan tandoori tofu skewers offers a healthier and less messy alternative to grilling, while still achieving that crispiness and smoky flavor you crave. While the recipe is already packed with flavor from the marinade, a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chaat masala after baking adds an extra zing. The result is a crispy, chewy, and absolutely delicious dish that will leave you coming back for more. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and vegan-friendly.
Why You’ll Love These Tandoori Tofu Skewers
Vibrant, Bold Flavors: The tandoori spice blend infuses the tofu with rich, aromatic flavors, making every bite a burst of exciting taste. It’s the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and spicy that keeps you coming back for more!
A Taste of India: Tandoori skewers are a beloved street food and restaurant staple in India. By recreating this iconic dish with tofu, you’re getting a taste of Indian culinary tradition, packed with rich spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. It’s a delicious way to experience a popular Indian dish, all while enjoying a plant-based twist!
Substitutions
Extra-Firm Tofu: Use extra-firm tofu for best results. Softer varieties may break apart during marination or grilling.For better texture, press the tofu in a kitchen towel, with a heavy objects (a few hardcover books, nothing too heavy) for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture before marinating.
Vegan Yogurt: Use unsweetened, thick Greek-style vegan yogurt, which can be soy, coconut, almond-based or other varieties. Taste test it before using – if you like the taste and texture, it’ll be good for this recipe. Make sure it’s not a sugary vanilla or another flavored yogurt either! We don’t want this recipe to be more sweet over savory. Kite Hill is a great brand for this!
Tandoori Tofu Skewers Recipe Notes
- Serve kebabs with mint chutney, vegan raita, or a squeeze of fresh lime. Pair with naan, rice pilaf, or a crisp salad for a complete meal!
More Recipes You’ll Love
Tawa Chole (Onion & Masala Chickpeas)
Air Fryer Cauliflower Manchurian
If you make this Oven Baked Vegan Tandoori Tofu Skewers Recipe, then leave a comment and star rating! Don’t forget to tag your photos @peanut_palate on Instagram. Enjoy!
Oven Baked Vegan Tandoori Tofu Skewers Recipe
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- 4 Large Skewers
- Oven
- Baking Tray
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- ¾ cup thick vegan yogurt unsweetened greek-style, see substitutions for brands
- 1 tsp tandoori masala
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1½ tsp chaat masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) crushed
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp pink salt
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint chopped
- 1 medium purple onion cut into ½-inch thick cubes
- 1½ medium bell peppers cut into ½-inch thick cubes
- ¾ block extra-firm tofu cut into ½-inch thick cubes
- fresh lemon wedge for topping
- chaat masala for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt with all the ingredients, up to and including the mint.
- Stir in the onion, peppers and tofu.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- After marinating, remove the bowl from the fridge. Take 4 large skewers or 8 small ones.
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
- Split up the tofu, onions and peppers to evenly place a mixture of each on all the skewers.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the skewers side by side.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then turn the setting to broil for 3 minutes. The tofu should start to look charred.
- Remove from the oven. Squeeze a lemon wedge over top, sprinkle some chaat masala and serve! (These skewers are best served with a green chutney).
Notes
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Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day.
- Reheating: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive or avocado oil and warm the kebabs for a few minutes, turning occasionally to reheat evenly.
