This Shrimp Tikka Masala is a lovely dish featuring juicy shrimp cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that warms your soul!
I love serving this dish with fluffy rice or warm naan. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of deliciousness. Trust me, you’ll want seconds (or thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best here. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using firm fish like cod or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt adds creaminess and tang. You can replace it with a dairy-free yogurt or buttermilk if needed. Greek yogurt gives extra thickness.
Garam Masala: This spice mix is central to the dish’s flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, a blend of cinnamon, cumin, and coriander can work in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: For a rich sauce, heavy cream is ideal. If you’re looking for a lighter option, coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative, adding a hint of sweetness.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro garnishes this dish beautifully. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even fresh mint can work surprisingly well.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp right is key; you want them juicy, not rubbery. Here’s how:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan on medium-high heat. It should be hot but not smoking.
- Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary!
- After removing from heat, let them rest briefly before adding to the sauce to keep them tender.
These tips will help you create a delicious and comforting Shrimp Tikka Masala that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Shrimp Tikka Masala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to spice preference)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and 30 minutes for cooking. So in total, you should set aside about 1 hour for making this delicious Shrimp Tikka Masala. You’ll be able to enjoy a fantastic dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with the yogurt, lemon juice, 1 tsp of garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Mix everything well to coat the shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—1 hour is even better!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or ghee in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are just cooked through and have a lovely char. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for about 7-8 minutes until they are golden brown and soft.
4. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the optional green chili to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and aromatic. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato puree, smoked paprika, the remaining 1 teaspoon of garam masala, and salt. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and the oil begins to separate from the sauce.
6. Add Cream:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring to combine everything until the sauce is rich and creamy. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
7. Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
Carefully add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce. Gently stir to coat all the shrimp well. Let them simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Beautifully garnish your Shrimp Tikka Masala with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve it hot alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a delicious and comforting meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Shrimp Tikka Masala! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Alternatively, you can mix some half-and-half or evaporated milk for a creamy texture without being too heavy. For a lower-calorie option, a splash of low-fat milk can also work, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version. You may want to adjust the cooking times for extra firm tofu or cubes of paneer, cooking them until golden before adding them to the sauce.
