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Chicken Tikka Masala, a world-renowned dish originating from Pakistan, is known for its tantalizing taste, spice-filled aroma, and creamy texture, paired perfectly with the soft, fluffy Naan bread. Today, we will dive into the process of making this delicious gastronomic delight in an authentic style, just as it’s done in the kitchens of Pakistan.
The Chicken Tikka Masala Story
Arguably one of Pakistan’s finest culinary exports, Chicken Tikka Masala blends the traditional clay oven cooking method – used to grill chicken pieces (tikka) – with a rich masala gravy, giving this dish a signature taste which has won over the hearts of food lovers worldwide.
The renowned spiciness of Chicken Tikka Masala is brought by the blend of spices comprising turmeric, garam masala, cumin, and coriander. It’s not just a luxury of taste buds, but also a treat for the eyes with its vibrant orange-red color set off by the creamy, juicy texture.
Preparing Chicken Tikka Masala
The preparation of Chicken Tikka Masala involves two primary components: the chicken tikka and the masala gravy. The chicken tikka is made by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of yogurt and spices, which is then griddled in a tandoor (clay oven) to give it a smoky flavor. The masala gravy is prepared using tomatoes, onions, and a plethora of spices.
Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken: 500g
- Tomatoes: 4(pureed)
- Onions: 2(finely chopped)
- Garlic: 4 cloves(minced)
Procedure
- Start by marinating the chicken pieces in yogurt, turmeric, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Let it marinate for a minimum of two hours.
- Bring a pan to heat and pour some oil. Add the marinated chicken pieces and fry them until they turn golden brown. Keep them aside.
- In the same pan, sautรฉ finely chopped onions and minced garlic until they turn translucent. Add spice powders like turmeric, coriander, garam masala and red chili powder along with pureed tomatoes.
- Cook until the mixture starts leaving oil on the sides and then add the fried chicken pieces to it. Cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
- Serve hot with a garnish of fresh coriander leaves and a side of fluffy naan bread.
Key Takeaways
- The key to an authentic Pakistani Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its spice blend and the marination process.
- Serving it with Naan bread enhances the overall flavor and creates a complete meal.
- While the recipe might sound tedious, the end product is worth every bit of the effort!
FAQ Section
What can be used as a substitute for a clay oven?
A grilled or pan-seared chicken would also offer a similar taste. However, if you’re looking to capture the authentic smoky flavor, you can consider investing in a small tandoor for your home.
What other breads can be paired with Chicken Tikka Masala?
Besides Naan, you can also serve Chicken Tikka Masala with rice or other types of Indian bread such as roti or paratha.
Can I use pre-made chicken tikka masala spice mix?
Yes, you can use a pre-made spice mix, but the taste of freshly ground spices always gives a better flavor.
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