Discover the innovative flavors of Shandhar Hut’s Tandoori Tofu, a contemporary dish that reimagines traditional tandoori cooking for plant-based dining with sophisticated flair. Our skilled chefs have crafted this unique preparation, bringing you a modern interpretation of classic Indian cuisine here in Chilliwack. Extra-firm tofu is carefully prepared and expertly marinated in a blend of yogurt and aromatic spices, then skillfully grilled in our tandoor to achieve a perfectly charred exterior while maintaining a tender, succulent interior that’s simply irresistible. The result is a dish that’s both bold and balanced, showcasing the perfect harmony between the tofu’s subtle nuttiness, the richness of the marinade, and the aromatic smokiness from our traditional clay oven. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan enthusiast, or simply looking to explore innovative Indian cuisine, our Tandoori Tofu is sure to captivate your palate. It’s excellent as a protein-rich appetizer, satisfying main course, or as part of a shared feast, pairing beautifully with our mint chutney or served alongside fragrant pulao rice. Perfect for a healthy lunch, mindful dinner, or as a creative addition to any celebration, Shandhar Hut’s Tandoori Tofu offers an exciting fusion of flavors that will transform your perception of plant-based Indian cuisine with each flavorful bite.

The evolution of Tandoori Tofu represents a fascinating chapter in the modernization of Indian cuisine, blending ancient cooking techniques with contemporary dietary preferences. While the tandoor has been used in Indian cooking for thousands of years, its application to tofu is a relatively recent innovation, emerging from the growing global interest in plant-based alternatives to traditional dishes.

The concept of tandoori tofu gained prominence in the late 20th century as Indian cuisine began adapting to meet the needs of an increasingly health-conscious and vegetarian international audience. This adaptation was particularly significant in urban centers across India and in Indian restaurants worldwide, where chefs began experimenting with tofu as a protein alternative that could hold up to traditional tandoori cooking methods.

While tofu originated in China over 2,000 years ago, its integration into Indian cuisine demonstrates the dynamic nature of culinary evolution. The mild, versatile nature of tofu proved to be an excellent canvas for the robust flavors of tandoori spices, much like paneer (Indian cottage cheese) had been for centuries before.

The preparation techniques for tandoori tofu were developed by innovative chefs who recognized that tofu could absorb marinades similarly to traditional proteins, while its firm texture could withstand the high heat of the tandoor. These chefs drew inspiration from traditional tandoori marinades while adapting their methods to enhance tofu’s unique properties.

In recent years, tandoori tofu has gained popularity worldwide, particularly in response to the growing plant-based food movement. It represents a perfect fusion of traditional Indian cooking techniques with modern dietary preferences, demonstrating how ancient culinary traditions can be successfully adapted for contemporary tastes.

Today, at Shandhar Hut, we embrace this innovative spirit while maintaining the authenticity of traditional tandoori cooking, offering our guests a dish that honors both the ancient art of tandoori cuisine and the modern demand for delicious plant-based options.

It is our mission to become Chilliwack’s premier destination for authentic Indian cuisine, and we believe the secret to our exceptional Tandoori Tofu lies in our commitment to quality ingredients and innovative tandoori techniques. We start with premium extra-firm tofu, carefully selected and pressed to achieve the perfect texture that stands up beautifully to tandoori cooking. The foundation of our marinade begins with a plant-based yogurt blend, which helps the tofu absorb flavors while creating a rich coating that ensures moistness throughout the cooking process. Our signature spice blend is a carefully guarded recipe, featuring the warmth of Kashmiri chili, the earthiness of turmeric, and the complex notes of garam masala. Fresh ginger and garlic paste add a potent aroma and depth, while lemon juice brings a bright acidity to the mix. We also incorporate mustard oil and dried fenugreek leaves for their unique flavors that particularly complement the tofu’s natural nuttiness. Each piece of tofu is meticulously marinated and allowed to rest for several hours, ensuring the flavors penetrate deeply while maintaining the tofu’s structural integrity. Just before cooking, we brush the tofu with a blend of olive oil and our special spice mix, which helps create those irresistible char marks and adds a rich, aromatic finish. The tofu is then carefully cooked in our traditional tandoor, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor while maintaining a perfect texture – crisp on the outside, tender within. The result is a dish that’s robustly flavored, perfectly cooked, and wonderfully satisfying – a true representation of modern Indian cuisine and a testament to our commitment to culinary excellence here at Shandhar Hut.

Embark on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of India at Shandhar Hut. Our menu showcases a rich tapestry of traditional and contemporary dishes, from sizzling tandoor specialties to aromatic curries and vegetarian delights. Savor the crunch of our hand-crafted appetizers, indulge in our signature house curries, or explore the smoky depths of our tandoor-grilled meats and seafood. With gluten-free and dairy-free options available, we cater to all palates and dietary needs.