Introduction
Are you a fan of Indian cuisine? If so, you must try this delicious lamb tikka masala recipe. This dish is a popular Indian curry that is made with marinated lamb and a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is a perfect combination of spicy and savory flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making this mouth-watering dish.
Ingredients
Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients we need:
- 1 1/2 pounds lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Marinating the Lamb
The first step in making lamb tikka masala is marinating the lamb. In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Add the lamb pieces and mix well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it tender.
Cooking the Curry
Now we can start cooking the curry. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the tomato paste and diced tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomato mixture thickens.
Next, add the marinated lamb and its marinade to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the lamb is browned on all sides. Add water as needed to prevent the curry from becoming too dry.
Finally, pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Simmer for another 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens and the lamb is fully cooked. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make a delicious lamb tikka masala at home. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or even for a weeknight dinner. The ingredients may seem daunting, but the process is actually quite simple. With a little patience and attention, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
