Spice up your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful vegan Tikka Masala recipe, elevated with the convenience of Trader Joe's delicious cumin rice. This dish balances creamy, aromatic spices with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked rice, offering a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you're a seasoned vegan cook or just starting your plant-based journey, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible results.
What is Tikka Masala?
Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian dish featuring marinated and cooked chicken (traditionally) in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. This recipe adapts the classic dish to be entirely vegan, maintaining the depth of flavor and satisfying creaminess without any animal products. The use of coconut milk provides a luxuriously creamy texture, while a blend of warming spices delivers the characteristic Tikka Masala aroma.
Trader Joe's Cumin Rice: The Perfect Side (or base!)
Trader Joe's cumin rice is a game-changer for this recipe. Its pre-cooked convenience saves valuable time, and the subtle cumin flavor complements the Tikka Masala beautifully. You can use it as a simple side dish, or even incorporate it directly into the sauce for a richer, heartier texture. It’s a pantry staple well worth having on hand!
Vegan Tikka Masala Recipe:
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Tikka Masala:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cauliflower florets (or other vegetables like chickpeas, peas, or potatoes)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- For Serving: Trader Joe's Cumin Rice, naan bread (vegan option available at most grocery stores)
Instructions:
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add spices: Add garam masala, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Simmer sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add vegetables: Add cauliflower florets (or your choice of vegetables) and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Serve hot over Trader Joe's cumin rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Serve with vegan naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of rice instead of Trader Joe's cumin rice?
Absolutely! Basmati rice, brown rice, or even quinoa would be excellent alternatives. If you opt for plain rice, consider adding a pinch of cumin to the rice while cooking to complement the Tikka Masala.
How can I make this Tikka Masala spicier?
For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper, or include a chopped chili pepper (serrano or jalapeño) along with the onions. You can also experiment with a pinch of chili flakes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The Tikka Masala tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to deepen. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
What are some other vegetables I can add?
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, potatoes, or chickpeas.
Is Trader Joe's Cumin Rice vegan?
Yes, Trader Joe's Cumin Rice is naturally vegan. Always check the ingredient list to be sure, but it contains no animal products.
This delicious vegan Tikka Masala with Trader Joe’s cumin rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! Remember to adapt it to your taste and preferences—culinary creativity is encouraged!
