Description
This Aromatic Tikka Masala Sauce recipe delivers restaurant-quality Indian flavor in just 30 minutes. Combining caramelized onions, vibrant spices, and a rich creamy tomato base, this sauce is perfect for busy weeknights and versatile enough to pair with chicken, paneer, vegetables, or chickpeas. Its customizable heat level and make-ahead convenience make it a delicious staple for your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
Scale
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 small bell pepper
- 2 tbsp minced fresh ginger
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato Base
- 1/4 cup tomato paste (double-concentrated)
- 2 cups canned tomato sauce (plain, no herbs or seasonings)
- 1 cup water
Dairy and Oils
- 3 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or ghee)
- 1 cup thick cream (heavy cream or half-and-half)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and chopped bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned. This step ensures a sweet, flavorful base for the sauce.
- Add and Bloom the Spices: Add 2 tablespoons minced ginger, 6 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 2 teaspoons turmeric powder, 2 teaspoons ground coriander, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 2 teaspoons garam masala to the softened vegetables. Stir continuously and cook the mixture for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices and release their full aroma and flavor without burning.
- Incorporate the Tomato Base: Stir in 1/4 cup tomato paste, 2 cups tomato sauce, and 1 cup water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust the consistency by adding more water if the sauce becomes too thick. This simmering deepens the flavor and allows the spices to meld with the tomato base.
- Add the Cream and Finish the Sauce: Pour 1 cup of thick cream into the sauce and stir well to incorporate it fully. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional few minutes on low heat until everything is heated through and the sauce is rich and creamy. Be careful not to let the sauce boil after adding the cream to prevent splitting.
Notes
- Allow onions to caramelize fully for 8-10 minutes if time permits to deepen flavor.
- Add spices gradually and bloom each to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Use high-quality tomato products to reduce acidity and improve taste.
- To make dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut cream or add Greek yogurt at the end off heat.
- The sauce thickens as it cools; adjust consistency with water or cream as needed.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat stirring occasionally.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: tikka masala sauce, Indian curry sauce, creamy tikka masala, easy tikka masala, weeknight dinner sauce, Indian spices, homemade curry sauce
