Shrimp Tikka Masala

Shrimp Tikka Masala

Shrimp Tikka Masala is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy and flavorful tomato-based sauce, infused with traditional Indian spices.

This beloved dish is known for its rich flavors and comforting appeal, making it a favorite in Indian cuisine. Tender shrimp are marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, grilled or pan-seared to perfection, and then simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with a perfect balance of spices.

Serve Shrimp Tikka Masala with rice or naan bread for a satisfying and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Marinade:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Shrimp Tikka Masala

Marinate the Shrimp:

In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, ginger garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic), ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and black pepper.

Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Cook the Shrimp:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Remove shrimp from the marinade, shaking off excess marinade.

Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Tikka Masala Sauce:

In the same skillet or a separate large pot, heat vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.

Add finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent.

Add minced garlic, minced ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Tomatoes:

Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Simmer with Tomatoes and Cream:

Add diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

Pour in heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring constantly until well combined. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Combine Shrimp with Sauce:

Gently add the cooked shrimp to the Tikka Masala sauce. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the shrimp to heat through. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Serve:

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves.

Serve Shrimp Tikka Masala hot, accompanied by steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Chef’s Note

For a smoky flavor, you can grill the marinated shrimp instead of pan-searing them. Adjust the spice level of the dish by increasing or decreasing the amount of green chili or Kashmiri red chili powder according to your preference.

If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy and lactose-free alternative. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutritional Value

(Nutritional values are approximate and per serving, without rice or naan)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg

Delight in the aromatic flavors of Shrimp Tikka Masala, where tender shrimp are enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce infused with traditional Indian spices. This dish offers a satisfying blend of savory, spicy, and creamy elements, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner or any occasion where you crave bold and comforting flavors from the Indian cuisine.

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