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Tikka Masala Sauce Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

This rich and flavorful Tikka Masala Sauce is a classic Indian-inspired recipe perfect for pairing with grilled chicken, paneer, or vegetables. Combining aromatic spices with a creamy tomato base, it delivers a perfectly balanced sauce that is both spicy and comforting. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile sauce is an ideal homemade accompaniment for your favorite tikka dishes.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving (approximately 2 cups sauce)
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

Sauce Base

  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 small bell pepper, chopped (preferably Kashmiri peppers or similar mild variety)
  • 2 tablespoons minced ginger
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced

Spices

  • 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne powder (optional for extra spicy)
  • Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)

Tomato and Cream

  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 2 cups tomato sauce (or more to taste)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare Peppers and Onion: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced ginger and garlic along with the ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, paprika, cayenne powder (if using), and garam masala. Cook and stir the mixture for 30 seconds to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
  3. Incorporate Tomato Base: Mix in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash more water to reach your desired consistency. Longer simmering enhances flavor.
  4. Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream thoroughly until fully incorporated, giving the sauce a rich and creamy texture. Heat through gently, then remove from heat and serve.

Notes

  • Use Kashmiri peppers if available for authentic flavor and mild heat; otherwise, substitute with any mild red bell pepper.
  • Adjust cayenne powder according to your spice tolerance; omit for a milder sauce.
  • This sauce pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, paneer, or roasted vegetables.
  • Simmer the sauce longer for more depth of flavor and a thicker consistency.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/tikka-masala-sauce-recipe/