Mock chicken tikka is Virat Kohli's favourite recipe- here's how you prepare it at home

Mock Chicken Tikka recipe, a delightful plant-based classic Indian dish is known for its flavourful journey. With aromatic spices and rich textures, ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and flexitarians. Even a seasoned plant-based eater or just exploring new culinary varieties, Mock Chicken Tikka with a blend of spices, the juicy tenderness, and mouthwatering flavours can be considered a beloved favourite for any food enthusiast.

Mock Chicken Tikka, this iconic dish in a delicious, meat-free form can help elevate your dining experience with every bite of irresistibly, cruelty-free delight.

Ingredients:-

Firm tofu or jackfruit pressed and cubed
1 cup dairy-free yoghurt (coconut or almond yoghurt works if you are completely vegan)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil/ olive oil
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
Cloves
Salt to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh cilantro
Tomatoes
Coconut Milk
Skewers for grilling

Recipe of Mock Chicken Tikka

Step1: Press the tofu or jackfruit to remove excess water. Cut your preferred choice of mock meat into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2:  In a bowl, combine the dairy-free yoghurt, vegetable oil or olive oil, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, chilli powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix these well to form a smooth marinade.

Step 3: Next, go ahead. Add the tofu or jackfruit cubes to the marinade.  And, ensure that each piece is well-coated.

Step 4: Cover the bowl.  Let the pieces of mock meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. In the overnight for better flavour absorption.

Step 5: Marinating the mock meat. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Once the oven is ready thread the marinated tofu or jackfruit cubes onto skewers.

Step 6: You can grill, cook the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the mock meat gets a nice char. If using an oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Step 7: Once done, in a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.

Step 8: Add minced garlic, grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and chilli powder to the pan. Stir well to combine.

Step 9: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir in salt to taste. If you want, add tomato paste for added richness.

Step 10: Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 11: Add the mock chicken to the sauce, allow it to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 12: Once it is well cooked, add some cilantro for an extra kick of flavour.  Serve with rice or naan.

Enjoy your happy vegetarian meal!