Origin of Chicken Tikka Masala
The origin of chicken tikka masala is not very clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent. Some people believe that the dish was invented in the Punjab region of India in the early 20th century. Others believe that it was invented in the UK by chefs who were trying to cater to the British palate.
Despite the uncertain origin, one thing that is for sure is that the dish has become popular all over the world. It has won the hearts of millions of people who love the spicy and flavorful taste of this dish.
How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken tikka masala is a relatively easy dish to make. However, it requires some prep work and time to marinate the chicken. The marination process is crucial, as it adds flavor to the chicken and makes it tender.
To make chicken tikka masala, start with marinating chicken chunks in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight for better results.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the oven to 400°F and thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Cook the chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes until it’s cooked through and slightly charred.
In a separate pan, cook onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until the onions are soft and fragrant. Add tomato puree, spices, and cream to the pan, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve it with rice or naan bread.
Variations of Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken tikka masala is a versatile dish that can be tweaked to suit individual preferences. You can adjust the spice level according to your taste or add more vegetables to make it healthier. Here are some variations of chicken tikka masala that you can try:
– Vegetarian chicken tikka masala: Replace the chicken with tofu, paneer, or vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and carrots.
– Gluten-free chicken tikka masala: Use gluten-free ingredients to make this dish suitable for people with gluten intolerance.
– Butter chicken: This is a milder version of chicken tikka masala, made by adding more butter and cream to the sauce.
Conclusion
In summary, chicken tikka masala is a delicious and popular dish that has won the hearts of people all over the world. Its origin may be uncertain, but its taste is undeniable. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can make this dish at home and impress your guests with its spicy and flavorful taste. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!