A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Tikka Masala with Raita – A Pakistani Specialty

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Chicken Tikka Masala is a renowned dish hailing from Pakistani cuisine that has gained global popularity. This flavorful dish pairs perfectly with Raita, a cooling yogurt-based side that compliments the spicy nature of the Tikka Masala. In this guide, you will learn how to prepare this delectable combination.

Chicken Tikka Masala Ingredients

The key to a perfect Chicken Tikka Masala lies in the ingredients. You will need the following:

  • 500g boneless chicken
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons of garlic paste
  • 2 tablespoons of ginger paste
  • 2 tablespoons of Tikka Masala spice blend
  • 1 large onion (finely diced)
  • 1 cup of tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup of cooking oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Raita Ingredients

Raita comes in various forms, but a simple cucumber Raita goes best with Chicken Tikka Masala. Here are the ingredients:

  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 cucumber (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Chicken Tikka Masala

  1. Cut the chicken into cubes and marinate it in a mixture of yogurt, garlic paste, ginger paste, and Tikka Masala spice blend. Set it aside for at least 2 hours.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add the diced onions. Cook until they turn golden brown.
  3. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it turns white, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the curry.
  5. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Cucumber Raita

  1. Beat the yogurt in a bowl until it becomes smooth.
  2. Add the grated cucumber and cumin powder.
  3. Stir well and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

Key Takeaways

  • Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours will make it more flavorful.
  • Make sure to cook the tomato puree until the oil starts separating.
  • Yogurt in the Raita acts as a coolant and neutralizes the spice from the Chicken Tikka Masala.
  • You can adjust the spice levels as per your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Chicken Tikka Masala is commonly served with naan or rice. However, it can also be enjoyed with plain roti or any other flatbread.

Can I use chicken with bones for the Tikka Masala?

Yes, you can. However, boneless chicken is easier to eat and absorb flavors better.

Can I make a vegan version of this dish?

Yes, by replacing chicken with tofu or paneer and using vegan yogurt, you can enjoy a vegan version of this dish.

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