Shrimp Tikka Masala is a tasty dish with juicy shrimp cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. It’s the perfect mix of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
Seriously, serve it over rice or with some naan, and you might feel like a chef at a fancy restaurant. I love how easy it is to whip up this dish for dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best because they hold up well in the sauce. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try substituting with chicken or paneer for a different taste.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If you prefer dairy-free, coconut yogurt is a great alternative that keeps the dish rich and delicious.
Spices: Garam masala is key for flavor. If you don’t have garam masala, you can mix equal parts of cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom as a substitution.
Coconut milk or heavy cream: I often use coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version. It adds a nice flavor but if you prefer it creamy, stick with heavy cream!
How Do I Make the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the shrimp just right is crucial for this dish. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding the shrimp. You want them to sizzle.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque – that’s your cue they’re done.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked to avoid further cooking in the residual heat.
This way, you’ll have tender shrimp that complements the delicious sauce beautifully!
How to Make Shrimp Tikka Masala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 lemon wedges (for serving)
- Plain basmati rice or naan (to serve)
- Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika (for extra smoky flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Tikka Masala will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes for cooking. Plus, you’ll need at least 30 minutes for marinating the shrimp to tenderize and infuse them with flavor. Overall, you can have this meal on your table in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, coriander, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the shrimp and toss everything together until well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
After marinating, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, which should take about 5-6 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Flavorful Base:
Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have deepened.
5. Add Creaminess to the Sauce:
Now, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to blend the flavors together nicely.
6. Combine Shrimp & Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, and gently toss them in the sauce. Allow everything to cook together for about 2 minutes, just until the shrimp are heated through and fully coated in the sauce.
7. Final Touches:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Shrimp Tikka Masala hot with lemon wedges on the side and either plain basmati rice or warm naan bread. Enjoy every flavorful bite of this creamy, aromatic dish!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to add more heat to your Shrimp Tikka Masala, you can increase the amount of chili powder or include some chopped green chilies when sautéing the onions. Adjust according to your spice preference for a personal touch!
What to Do with Leftover Shrimp Tikka Masala?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, making sure to stir occasionally for even heating. You may want to add a splash of cream or coconut milk to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Use coconut yogurt for marinating the shrimp and coconut milk in place of heavy cream. This will keep the dish creamy while making it dairy-free. Enjoy the tropical flavors!
