How to Make Indian tikka masala sauce

• Start by blanching the tomatoes. Make a small ‘X’ shaped cut on the bottom of each tomato. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the tomatoes. Let them cook for about 2 minutes until the skin starts to peel off. Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and place them in a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cool, peel off the skin and roughly chop the tomatoes.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and start to brown, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Now, add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, cayenne pepper, and salt to the pan. Stir well to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger with the spices. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
• Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and stir everything together. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should break down and turn into a thick sauce.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the sauce using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
• Optional step: If you want to make the sauce creamier, add the heavy cream to the pan and stir well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt or spices according to your preference.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve the tikka masala sauce hot.

The tikka masala sauce is typically served with grilled or roasted chicken, paneer (Indian cheese), or vegetables. It is a popular accompaniment to dishes like chicken tikka masala or paneer tikka masala, where the protein or vegetables are cooked separately and then simmered in the tikka masala sauce to infuse them with its rich and aromatic flavors.

In conclusion, Indian tikka masala sauce is a vibrant and flavorful tomato-based sauce that is known for its rich and aromatic spices. It adds depth and complexity to various dishes and is a favorite among lovers of Indian cuisine. The combination of tomatoes, spices, and other ingredients creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Its versatility makes it a fantastic choice for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, making it a must-try sauce for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Indian flavors.

Facts about the sauce:

1. Tikka masala sauce is believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, although its exact origins are debated, with some claiming it was created in the United Kingdom.
2. It is often associated with British Indian cuisine and has become a popular dish worldwide.
3. The sauce typically features a combination of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala, giving it its distinct flavor profile.
4. While the traditional recipe calls for heavy cream, you can make a lighter version by omitting the cream or using yogurt as a substitute.
5. The sauce’s deep red color comes from the tomatoes and the vibrant blend of spices used in its preparation.
6. Tikka masala sauce is known for its versatility and can be used as a base for various dishes, such as curries, marinades, or as a dipping sauce.
7. It is enjoyed by people around the world due to its rich flavors and ability to be customized according to personal preferences, such as adjusting the level of spiciness.