Tikka Masala Recipe

Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian dish known for its creamy tomato sauce and tender marinated chicken or paneer. This recipe simplifies the process so you can enjoy restaurant-quality Tikka Masala right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• For the Marinade:
  • 500g boneless chicken thighs or paneer cubes
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
• For the Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken or Paneer

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
2. Add chicken thighs or paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Cooking the Tikka

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. Arrange the marinated chicken or paneer in a single layer on the wire rack.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and lightly charred. Set aside.

Step 3: Making the Tikka Masala Sauce

1. Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
5. Pour in tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and raw tomato flavor diminishes.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust salt and cayenne pepper. Add sugar if the sauce is too tangy.
8. Gently add the baked chicken or paneer tikka into the sauce, stirring gently to coat. Simmer for another 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Serving

1. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.
2. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.

Tips:

• Marinate chicken or paneer longer for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• For a vegetarian version, use paneer or tofu instead of chicken.

Conclusion:

Enjoy this homemade Tikka Masala, a delicious blend of Indian spices and creamy tomato sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe brings the flavors of India right to your table.