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If you’re a fan of rich, flavorful, and aromatic dishes, then Chicken Tikka Masala should undoubtedly be on your culinary radar. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this dish has gained international popularity, making it a beloved recipe in many households. The secret to elevating your Chicken Tikka Masala lies in using high-quality ghee for an unforgettable taste. In this article, we dive deep into the delightful world of Chicken Tikika Masala with Ghee, offering you a step-by-step guide to crafting this masterpiece at home.
What Makes Chicken Tikka Masala with Ghee So Special?
The magic of Chicken Tikka Masala with Ghee lies in the perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and the rich, nutty flavor that ghee brings to the table. Ghee, a form of clarified butter, is a staple in Indian cuisine and is known for its high smoke point and distinctive taste. It enhances the dishโs flavor profile and adds a depth that is hard to achieve with other fats.
Ingredients
- 500g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt (for marinade)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons ghee (plus extra for cooking)
- 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 can (14 ounces) of tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnishing
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon cumin, and chili powder. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Heat ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, cooking until browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add some more ghee if needed. Sautรฉ onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add the remaining turmeric, garam masala, and cumin to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the tomato puree and add salt to taste. Bring to a simmer, letting it cook for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, adding the heavy cream. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Chicken Tikka Masala with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Key Takeaways
- Using high-quality ghee is crucial for achieving the rich flavor and aroma characteristic of Chicken Tikka Masala.
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances its tenderness and allows it to absorb the spices better.
- Gentle simmering helps in blending the flavors and ensuring the chicken is cooked perfectly.
- Serving the dish with rice or naan complements its rich taste and makes for a hearty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I substitute ghee with another type of fat?
- While ghee is recommended for its distinct flavor, you can use butter or oil as a substitute. However, the taste will slightly differ.
- How can I make a dairy-free version of Chicken Tikka Masala?
- To make it dairy-free, replace yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and heavy cream with coconut milk. Note that this will alter the flavor profile.
- Is Chicken Tikka Masala gluten-free?
- Yes, Chicken Tikka Masala is naturally gluten-free. However, ensure that all packaged ingredients used are labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
- Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?
- Yes, Chicken Tikka Masala freezes well. Allow it to cool down before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
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