Shrimp Tikka Masala is a tasty dish featuring juicy shrimp in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. It’s a great mix of flavors that make your taste buds dance!
I love to serve it with rice or warm naan. That sauce is perfect for dipping! Plus, it’s quick to cook—so no waiting too long for your dinner! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp are great choices. If you have a shellfish allergy, use firm tofu or chicken instead! Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If dairy-free, opt for coconut yogurt for a similar texture.
Garam Masala: This spice blend is key to flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon can be a good substitute.
Heavy Cream vs. Coconut Milk: Heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but if you’re looking for a lighter or vegan option, coconut milk works wonderfully, adding its unique flavor.
Tomatoes: Tomato puree/ crushed tomatoes are essential for the sauce. Use fresh tomatoes in a pinch, but cook them down to achieve the right consistency.
How Can I Ensure My Shrimp Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right is all about timing. They cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked. Here’s how:
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, waiting until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they are cooked; they’ll continue cooking in the sauce.
- Return them to the sauce at the end just to warm through without cooking further.
This way, you’ll have juicy shrimp in your Tikka Masala every time!
How to Make Shrimp Tikka Masala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 tsp garam masala
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 tsp salt (adjust as needed)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp Tikka Masala recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time. Overall, allow for about 1 hour to marinate the shrimp for the best flavor, plus the cooking time for an easily delicious homemade dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, 1 tsp garam masala, paprika, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Add the shrimp to this marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade (shaking off any excess) and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side or until they are just pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté the chopped onions for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. This step adds a depth of flavor to your dish!
4. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for another minute until they are fragrant. Stir to combine with the onions.
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato puree, the remaining 2 teaspoons of garam masala, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens, and the oil starts to separate on the surface. This is when the magic happens!
6. Stir in Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes until it is heated through and creamy.
7. Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
Gently add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce and let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish your Shrimp Tikka Masala with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream, if desired. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan, and don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch!
Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Tikka Masala! It’s a fantastic way to bring a little spice into your meal. 🍤
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before marinating. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging the bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving. If you have leftovers, store them for up to 3 days in the fridge.
How to Adjust Spice Levels?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. You can also balance the heat with a bit more cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Shrimp Tikka Masala?
It goes wonderfully with basmati rice or warm naan to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a refreshing contrast.