Masala Chickpeas With Tofu and Blistered Tomatoes

Published June 17, 2025

Masala Chickpeas With Tofu and Blistered Tomatoes
Linda Xiao for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Monica Pierini
Total Time
35 minutes
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Rating
5(8)
Comments
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Like a warm and gentle nudge, masala spice gives onions and chickpeas a distinctively comforting heartiness. Glimmering with droplets of ghee, they become rich in this any-season dish. Tearing the tofu allows for ample crooks and crannies that cradle and accentuate the aromatic goodness of the spice. Cherry tomatoes, slightly and delicately blistered, are welcome as juicy bursts of acidity in every bite. Serve this over rice, or with a gently poached egg, along with a few slices of lime for squeezing.

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Ingredients

Yield:2 to 4 servings
  • 1(14-ounce) block firm or extra-firm tofu, drained
  • tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1large red onion, finely chopped, some saved for garnish
  • 1(2-inch) piece fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2garlic cloves, finely grated
  • 1teaspoon ground tandoori masala (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1(15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed
  • 1pint cherry tomatoes
  • ¼cup fresh mint or dill leaves, chopped, plus more leaves for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving
Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (4 servings)

377 calories; 20 grams fat; 2 grams saturated fat; 0 grams trans fat; 11 grams monounsaturated fat; 5 grams polyunsaturated fat; 37 grams carbohydrates; 10 grams dietary fiber; 9 grams sugars; 18 grams protein; 831 milligrams sodium

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Slice the tofu in half horizontally and place on a clean kitchen or paper towel to dry.

  2. Step 2

    Set a 10-inch skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon ghee. Once the ghee begins to shimmer, season both sides of the tofu with salt and pepper, place in the pan and sear without moving until the tofu is browned, about 4 minutes. Turn the pieces over and brown the other side, 4 to 5 minutes more. Transfer the tofu to a plate.

  3. Step 3

    Add 2 tablespoons ghee to the same skillet and heat over medium until shimmering. Add the onion (saving some for garnish) and cook, stirring often, for 4 minutes, or until translucent. Add the ginger, garlic and masala spice and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes, or until fragrant.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in the chickpeas and cook for 3 minutes, or until the chickpeas begin to sizzle.

  5. Step 5

    Turn the heat up to medium-high, add the remaining ½ tablespoon ghee, then add the tomatoes and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook without stirring until the tomatoes are just beginning to pop open and the chickpeas are warmed through, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the mint.

  6. Step 6

    Break the tofu into 1-inch pieces and toss in the skillet to coat with chickpea-tomato mix. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until warmed through. Remove from heat, taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary. Garnish with remaining chopped raw onions and a few leaves of fresh mint. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.

Ratings

5 out of 5
8 user ratings
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Comments

Delicious, easy, and so forgiving. Used garam masala cumin, dill instead of mint, and eyeballed the garlic and ginger—came out effortlessly good and made my day!

I made this with halloumi instead of tofu because I had it on hand and thought it might mimic paneer. The result was great. I also let my tomatoes collapse a bit more after popping to have a bit more saucy consistency. I also added a bit of cayenne for heat. A keeper!

Delicious, easy, and so forgiving. Used garam masala cumin, dill instead of mint, and eyeballed the garlic and ginger—came out effortlessly good and made my day!

So happy to see Yewande back!! Can't wait to try this.

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