Shrimp Tikka Masala – Tikka Masala stands out as a beloved dish worldwide. It consists of tender pieces of shrimp in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that brings together the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian spices with the succulent sweetness of shrimp.
What is Shrimp Tikka Masala?
Shrimp Tikka Masala is a dish that combines juicy shrimp with a luscious, spiced tomato and cream-based sauce. The shrimp are marinated in yogurt and spices before being cooked to perfection, then simmered in a rich sauce that includes ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a blend of Indian spices such as garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. The result is a dish that is both savory and subtly sweet, with a beautiful balance of heat and creaminess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Butter or Ghee: Adds a rich, buttery finish to the dish.
Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp work equally well.
Yogurt: Used for marinating the shrimp, helping to tenderize and infuse them with flavor.
Spices: Key spices include garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and red chili powder. These create the signature depth and warmth of Tikka Masala.
Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes are simmered down into a sauce. Tomato paste is added for richness.
Cream or Coconut Milk: Heavy cream or coconut milk adds a creamy finish to the sauce, making it luscious and smooth.
Garlic and Ginger: Essential aromatics that elevate the flavor of the sauce.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp Tikka Masala
- Do not overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough. A few minutes per side is enough to keep them tender.
- Use full-fat yogurt: This adds richness to the marinade and helps prevent curdling during cooking.
- Adjust the heat: For a milder version, reduce the red chili powder. For more heat, add chopped green chilies or extra chili powder.
- Coconut Milk for a Dairy-Free Version: Substituting heavy cream with coconut milk creates a dairy-free version of Shrimp Tikka Masala while adding a subtle, tropical flavor.
Variations of Shrimp Tikka Masala
Tomato-Free: Replace tomatoes with roasted red bell peppers for a sweeter, less acidic sauce.
Vegan Option: Swap the shrimp for tofu or chickpeas and use coconut yogurt in the marinade for a vegan twist.
Spicier Version: Add fresh green chilies or increase the red chili powder for a hotter version.
How to Serve Shrimp Tikka Masala
- With Rice: Basmati rice is a classic pairing, but jasmine or brown rice also works well.
- With Naan or Roti: Use naan or roti to scoop up the creamy sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
- As a Part of a Thali: Serve it alongside other Indian dishes like dal, raita, and papad for a complete thali experience.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Tikka Masala
- In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Shrimp Tikka Masala can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
- To Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or cream to loosen it up.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
2. What type of shrimp is best for Tikka Masala?
Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal as they hold up better during cooking. Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for ease of preparation.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and marinate the shrimp a day in advance. Store them separately, then combine and cook the shrimp just before serving.
4. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer before adding the cream, or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.
5. What’s the best way to adjust the seasoning?
Taste the sauce before adding the shrimp and adjust the salt, chili powder, or garam masala to suit your preference.
Shrimp Tikka Masala
Shrimp Tikka Masala - Tikka Masala stands out as a beloved dish worldwide. It consists of tender pieces of shrimp in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that brings together the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian spices with the succulent sweetness of shrimp.
Ingredients
- 400 g (14 oz) king prawns
- 1 tbsp rapeseed oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 large onion, very finely chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 x 400g (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 3 tbsp tikka masala curry paste
- ½ tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp desiccated coconut
- 50 ml (1.7 fl oz) double cream
- 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) water
Instructions
- Start the Base: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 1-2 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the Prawns: Toss in the prawns, cooking for 4-5 minutes until they start to turn pink.
- Build the Sauce: Mix in the curry paste, tomato puree, chopped tomatoes, and brown sugar. Add 100 ml of water, stir well, and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish with Coconut and Cream: Stir in the desiccated coconut and let it cook for another minute. Pour in the double cream, stirring to create a velvety sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped coriander and serve hot with basmati rice or naan. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 1964Total Fat 149gSaturated Fat 90gTrans Fat 5gUnsaturated Fat 48gCholesterol 1482mgSodium 5001mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 2gSugar 17gProtein 127g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts on Shrimp Tikka Masala
Shrimp Tikka Masala is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of India into your kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. With its vibrant flavors, creamy sauce, and tender shrimp, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. Pair it with fragrant rice or soft naan, and let the rich, spiced flavors transport you to a culinary journey across the seas. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious journey with each bite of Shrimp Tikka Masala!
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