Our family has developed a devotion to Indian food. An Indian restaurant opened near us. We ate there once and were instantly in love. I've always been a curry hound. But the curry was only the beginning. I can't get enough butter chicken, masala, tikka, vindaloo, tandoori and other fragrant dishes. I don't need meat--just the spicy sauces is enough, but only level one heat please. Here's my vege-fied diet tweaked garam masala butter chicken recipe for calorie counters.
It's Lent for us Catholics. I'm not giving up any particular food, but I am dieting. I have lost 95 pounds. And my husband and daughter have given up meat. So I made a vegan Indian masala. Each one-cup serving has about 100 calories, little fat and 10 grams of protein. It's similar to butter chicken.
Cube one pound light silken firm tofu. Chop leek, celery (leaves and all) and green pepper. Saute in olive, coconut, safflower or sunflower oil. Season with garam masala, celery seed, turmeric, curry powder, ginger and salt-free Spike to taste.
Add two teaspoons Better Than Bouillon vegetable soup base, six ounces of tomato paste, one can coconut milk, one can sweet peas, and two cups light soy milk. Blend. Add dash of Bragg's Liquid Amino if desired. Serve with jasmine rice and fresh greens salad.
This recipe is therapeutic for those with arthritis, as turmeric and ginger are anti-inflammatory. Enjoy.

