Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of this Homemade Tikka Masala Sauce, perfect for transforming any protein or vegetable into a mouthwatering dish. This sauce is a beautiful blend of warm spices, fresh ginger, and tomatoes, making it a versatile base for many Indian-inspired dishes.
Benefits:
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of garam masala, ginger, and garlic creates a deep, complex flavor profile that enhances any dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like coconut oil and fresh vegetables, this sauce is a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
- Versatile Use: Use this sauce with chicken, tofu, paneer, or vegetables. It’s also great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this sauce is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 large onion, minced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 red jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- 3 cups roasted crushed tomatoes
Instructions:
- Sauté the Onion: In a large pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until the onion becomes golden and soft.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, garam masala, and fresh ginger. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their fragrance.
- Incorporate the Jalapeño: Add the minced red jalapeño pepper to the pot, stirring well. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the heat and flavor of the pepper to infuse the sauce.
- Simmer with Tomatoes: Pour in the roasted crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve or Store: Use the sauce immediately with your choice of protein or vegetables, or let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for later use.
Helpful Tips:
- Adjust the Spice Level: For a milder sauce, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or use a less spicy pepper.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Prep Ahead: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, this sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I use this sauce for?
A: This Tikka Masala sauce is perfect for chicken, tofu, paneer, or vegetables. It’s also great as a dipping sauce or a base for curries.
Q: How do I adjust the spice level?
A: To reduce the spice level, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or substitute with a milder pepper.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread.
- Pair with grilled or roasted chicken, tofu, paneer, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.
Servings:
- Makes about 4-6 servings of sauce, depending on how it’s used.
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Card
Best Homemade Tikka Masala Sauce
Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of this Homemade Tikka Masala Sauce, perfect for transforming any protein or vegetable into a mouthwatering dish. This sauce is a beautiful blend of warm spices, fresh ginger, and tomatoes, making it a versatile base for many Indian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
- – 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- – 1 large onion minced
- – 5 garlic cloves minced
- – 1/2 teaspoon salt
- – 2 tablespoons garam masala
- – 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- – 1 red jalapeño pepper seeded and minced
- – 3 cups roasted crushed tomatoes
Instructions
- **Sauté the Onion**: In a large pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until the onion becomes golden and soft.
- **Add Aromatics**: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, garam masala, and fresh ginger. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their fragrance.
- **Incorporate the Jalapeño**: Add the minced red jalapeño pepper to the pot, stirring well. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the heat and flavor of the pepper to infuse the sauce.
- **Simmer with Tomatoes**: Pour in the roasted crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
- **Serve or Store**: Use the sauce immediately with your choice of protein or vegetables, or let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for later use.