This Shrimp Tikka Masala is a fabulous mix of juicy shrimp cooked in a creamy, spicy tomato sauce. It’s bursting with flavor and perfect over rice or with naan!
If you’re looking for a dish that’ll impress your friends, this is it! I love how easy it is to whip up while making your kitchen smell absolutely amazing. Who doesn’t love a little magic in the air? 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect here, but you can also use medium or even extra-large shrimp. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp work well too; just thaw them properly before cooking.
Ghee vs. Vegetable Oil: I love using ghee for its rich flavor, but vegetable oil is a great alternative. If you want a vegan option, go for olive or coconut oil.
Onion: A large yellow onion is my go-to for sweetness, but white or red onions can work too. Just keep in mind that red onions will add a sharper taste.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for lighter options, full-fat coconut milk is a great choice. It adds a nice creaminess without dairy. You can even use yogurt, but add it gently to avoid curdling.
Spices: You can adjust the spices according to your taste. If you can’t find garam masala, a mix of cumin, coriander, and a bit of cinnamon can substitute well. For more heat, add extra cayenne or chili powder.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Stays Juicy?
Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky, but here’s the key: do not overcook them! They cook quickly, so watch them carefully. Here’s how:
- Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
- Remove them from the pan as soon as they’re cooked and set aside to prevent them from cooking further.
- Return them to the pan only at the end when the sauce is ready to keep them tender and juicy.
Following these steps will give you perfectly cooked shrimp every time. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Shrimp Tikka Masala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked basmati rice or naan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Tikka Masala takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes marinating and cooking the shrimp and about 10-15 minutes preparing the sauce. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal to whip up, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or when you’re entertaining guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1/2 tsp garam masala, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 tsp turmeric. This step adds flavor and ensures the shrimp are delicious. Set the mixture aside for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil or ghee in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. You want them to turn just pink and slightly charred. As soon as they’re cooked, take them out of the pan and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This gives a lovely base flavor to your dish!
4. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Once the onions are golden, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute. You’ll love how fragrant your kitchen smells at this point!
5. Add the Spices:
Mix in the remaining spices: garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent them from burning.
6. Include the Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. This helps deepen the flavor of the sauce.
7. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until it thickens nicely.
8. Add Cream:
Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until it becomes creamy and well combined.
9. Add the Shrimp:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently toss them in the sauce. Heat everything through for another 2 minutes. Make sure not to overcook the shrimp!
10. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the sauce and adjust the salt as needed. You want the flavors to be just right!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Shrimp Tikka Masala hot over basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Shrimp Tikka Masala! This dish is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly 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 like more heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or a chopped fresh chili pepper when you’re cooking the spices. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who want an extra kick!
What Are Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or coconut milk to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Cook the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine them just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the shrimp.