Shrimp Tikka Masala is a delightful twist on the classic chicken tikka masala, combining the flavors of Indian spices with the delicate sweetness of shrimp. This dish begins with marinating shrimp in a blend of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and an array of spices including cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The marination allows the shrimp to absorb the rich flavors, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.
After marinating, the shrimp are typically skewered and grilled or baked until they are perfectly cooked, with a slight char that adds to their flavor. The creamy tomato sauce, which is the hallmark of tikka masala, is prepared separately. This sauce is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger, then adding tomatoes, cream, and spices such as turmeric, paprika, and garam masala.
Once the sauce is simmered to perfection, the grilled shrimp are added, allowing them to soak in the creamy, aromatic gravy. The result is a dish that combines the smoky, spicy notes of the marinated shrimp with the rich, velvety texture of the tikka masala sauce. Shrimp Tikka Masala is best enjoyed with basmati rice or warm naan, making it a perfect meal for those who love a blend of seafood and Indian cuisine.
Kitchen Tools Needed
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups
Skewers (if grilling)
Baking sheet (if baking)
Grill or oven
Large skillet or pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife
Cutting board
Blender or food processor (optional, for a smoother sauce)
Serving dishes
Ingredients for Shrimp Tikka Masala
For the Marinade
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1/2 cup water
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional
1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
1 green chili, finely chopped (for added heat)
Serving
Basmati rice or naan bread
How To Make Shrimp Tikka Masala?
Marinating and Cooking the Shrimp
Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a smooth marinade. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Once the shrimp have marinated, you have two options for cooking: grilling or baking. If grilling, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat until they are cooked through, with a slight char on the outside. If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
Preparing the Sauce
While the shrimp are cooking, you can prepare the tikka masala sauce. Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger paste, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Next, add the ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, paprika, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir the spices into the onion mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until they release their aromas. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture.
To create a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and add water to achieve your desired consistency. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combining and Serving
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce and let them simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors. For added richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter at this stage. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can also add a finely chopped green chili.
To finish, garnish the Shrimp Tikka Masala with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve the dish hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread, ensuring you have plenty of the creamy, flavorful sauce to enjoy with each bite.
What Goes Delicious With Shrimp Tikka Masala?
Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice perfectly complements the rich, creamy sauce of shrimp tikka masala.
Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is ideal for scooping up the delicious tikka masala sauce.
Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side dish, often mixed with cucumbers, mint, and spices, balances the heat of the curry.
Chapati or Roti: These whole wheat flatbreads are great alternatives to naan and pair well with the flavorful sauce.
Papadum: Crispy, thin wafers that add a delightful crunch to the meal.
Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, mango chutney provides a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp tikka masala.
Onion Bhaji: Crispy onion fritters that make a great appetizer or side dish.
Aloo Gobi: A mildly spiced dish of potatoes and cauliflower that complements the flavors of the tikka masala.
Salad: A simple salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a light lemon dressing to add a fresh touch.
Pickled Vegetables: A variety of tangy, spiced pickles can add a burst of flavor and crunch.
Dal (Lentil Curry): A protein-rich side that complements the shrimp and adds another layer of flavor to the meal.
Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach with chunks of paneer cheese, offering a vegetarian contrast to the shrimp dish.
Mint Chutney: Fresh and zesty, mint chutney adds a vibrant flavor that enhances the overall meal.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors of the shrimp tikka masala.
Chai Tea: A warm, spiced tea that makes for a perfect end to the meal.
Beverage Options To Serve With Shrimp Tikka Masala
Mango Lassi: A sweet and creamy yogurt-based drink that complements the spicy flavors of shrimp tikka masala while cooling the palate.
Chilled Coconut Water: Refreshing and hydrating, coconut water provides a tropical touch that pairs well with the rich, spicy dish.
Masala Chai: A spiced tea with flavors of cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, offering a warm and aromatic contrast to the meal.
Mint Lemonade: A zesty and refreshing beverage with the cooling effect of mint and the tang of lemon, balancing the heat of the curry.
Rosewater Cooler: A fragrant and mildly sweet drink made with rosewater, sugar, and water, offering a delicate floral note that pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of tikka masala.
Ginger Ale: The spiciness of ginger ale complements the flavors of the dish while providing a refreshing, fizzy accompaniment.
Cucumber Mint Cooler: A refreshing drink made with blended cucumbers, mint leaves, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar, perfect for cooling down after a spicy meal.
Iced Green Tea: Light and refreshing, iced green tea with a hint of lemon or mint can cleanse the palate and provide a subtle contrast to the richness of the tikka masala.
Lassi Variations: Apart from mango lassi, other variations like sweet lassi (plain yogurt, sugar, and a hint of cardamom) or salty lassi (yogurt, water, salt, and cumin) also make excellent choices.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Simple yet effective, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime can refresh your palate and balance the spiciness of the dish.
Chai Fizz: A unique and refreshing blend of chai tea and sparkling water, served over ice, combines the warmth of chai spices with a refreshing fizz.
Herbal Iced Tea: Flavors like hibiscus, chamomile, or peppermint tea served chilled offer a refreshing and soothing beverage option to accompany the meal.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Tikka Masala
Shrimp Tikka Masala is not only a delicious and flavorful dish but also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits:
High in Protein: Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps in keeping you full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.
Low in Calories: Compared to other protein sources, shrimp is relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. These fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc. Vitamin B12 is important for brain health and energy production, selenium acts as an antioxidant, and zinc supports immune function.
Contains Antioxidants: The spices used in the tikka masala sauce, such as turmeric and garlic, have antioxidant properties. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Promotes Digestive Health: The ginger and garlic in the marinade and sauce are known for their digestive health benefits, including reducing bloating and aiding in digestion.
Boosts Metabolism: The protein and spices in shrimp tikka masala can help boost metabolism. Spices like chili powder and paprika can increase metabolic rate and promote fat burning.
Supports Bone Health: Shrimp is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, all of which are important for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
Aids in Immune Function: The combination of shrimp and spices provides a range of nutrients that support the immune system, helping to protect against infections and illnesses.
Tips And Suggestions
Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.
Proper Marination: Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes, but not more than 2 hours. Over-marinating can result in mushy shrimp.
Grill or Sear for Flavor: Grilling or searing the shrimp before adding them to the sauce adds a smoky, charred flavor that enhances the dish.
Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and other spices to suit your taste. You can always add more heat later if needed.
Blend the Sauce: For a smoother, restaurant-style sauce, blend the cooked onion-tomato mixture before adding the cream or coconut milk.
Use Ghee: Cooking the sauce in ghee instead of oil can add a rich, authentic flavor to the dish.
Cream vs. Coconut Milk: Decide between using heavy cream for a richer, more indulgent sauce or coconut milk for a lighter, slightly sweet variation.
Balancing Acidity: If the sauce tastes too acidic from the tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of honey to balance the flavors.
Simmer Gently: After adding the shrimp to the sauce, simmer gently to avoid overcooking, which can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
Butter for Richness: Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for extra richness and a glossy finish to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately with warm naan or basmati rice to enjoy the dish at its best.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve the next day, making it a great dish for meal prep.
Variations: Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added texture and nutrition.
Prep Ahead: Marinate the shrimp and prepare the sauce base ahead of time to make the final cooking process quicker and easier.
Spice Adjustments: Keep extra garam masala or ground cumin on hand to adjust the seasoning to your taste just before serving.
Variations for Shrimp Tikka Masala
Vegetable Tikka Masala: Replace shrimp with a mix of vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, and peas for a vegetarian version.
Chicken Tikka Masala: Substitute shrimp with chicken pieces, marinated and cooked in the same way, for a classic twist.
Paneer Tikka Masala: Use paneer cubes instead of shrimp for a protein-rich vegetarian option.
Tofu Tikka Masala: Swap shrimp with firm tofu for a vegan-friendly version that still offers plenty of protein.
Fish Tikka Masala: Use firm white fish like cod or haddock for a different seafood variation.
Lamb Tikka Masala: Substitute shrimp with lamb pieces for a richer, more robust flavor.
Spicy Tikka Masala: Increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh green chilies for an extra kick.
Creamy Coconut Tikka Masala: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a thicker, richer sauce.
Mixed Seafood Tikka Masala: Combine shrimp with other seafood like scallops, mussels, and squid for a diverse seafood medley.
Healthy Tikka Masala: Use Greek yogurt in the marinade and reduce the amount of cream in the sauce for a lighter version.
Keto Tikka Masala: Omit the tomatoes and use more cream and spices to create a low-carb version suitable for ketogenic diets.
Smoky Tikka Masala: Add smoked paprika or use a charcoal grill to give the dish a distinct smoky flavor.
Substitutions for Shrimp Tikka Masala
Shrimp Substitutes: Use chicken, paneer, tofu, or vegetables as a substitute for shrimp.
Heavy Cream: Substitute with coconut milk, half-and-half, or Greek yogurt for different textures and flavors.
Ghee: Replace with vegetable oil, butter, or coconut oil depending on dietary preferences and availability.
Yogurt: Use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free alternative or sour cream for a tangier flavor.
Tomato Base: Substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes or tomato puree for convenience.
Garam Masala: If unavailable, mix equal parts ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to create a homemade blend.
Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Substitute with ginger-garlic paste or powder if fresh ingredients are not available.
Cilantro: Replace with parsley for a different but still fresh garnish.
Green Chili: Use red chili flakes or hot sauce for heat if green chilies are unavailable.
Lemon Juice: Substitute with lime juice or vinegar for the tangy element in the marinade.
Making Ahead, Storage and Reheating of Shrimp Tikka Masala
Making Ahead
Marinate in Advance: Prepare the marinade and coat the shrimp, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to develop and saves time on the day of cooking.
Prepare the Sauce: Make the tikka masala sauce a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add freshly cooked shrimp.
Pre-cook Shrimp: If short on time, you can grill or bake the shrimp ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add them to the reheated sauce just before serving.
Storage
Refrigeration: Store any leftover shrimp tikka masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze shrimp tikka masala. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure the container is sealed tightly.
Reheating
Stovetop: Reheat shrimp tikka masala on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Microwave: Transfer the shrimp tikka masala to a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly warmed.
Oven: For a gentler reheating method, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the shrimp tikka masala in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until hot.
Thawing Frozen Tikka Masala: If reheating from frozen, thaw the shrimp tikka masala in the refrigerator overnight before using one of the above methods to reheat. Alternatively, you can use the microwave defrost setting to thaw more quickly.
Shrimp Tikka Masala is a popular Indian-inspired dish featuring shrimp marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. It combines the smoky, grilled flavors of tikka with the aromatic, spiced masala sauce.
Yes, you can make Shrimp Tikka Masala dairy-free by using coconut milk or coconut yogurt in place of dairy yogurt and cream. This substitution will still provide a creamy texture and rich flavor while accommodating those with dairy restrictions.
To avoid rubbery shrimp, be careful not to overcook them. Marinate the shrimp for the appropriate amount of time, and cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. When adding them to the sauce, simmer gently and only for a short time to allow them to absorb the flavors without overcooking.
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Tikka Masala. Thaw the shrimp thoroughly before marinating. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the marinade adhere better and ensures even cooking.
Shrimp Tikka Masala pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Traditional options include basmati rice, naan bread, and chapati. For additional variety, consider serving it with raita (a yogurt-based condiment), a simple cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables. These sides complement the rich and flavorful main dish, adding texture and balance to the meal.
Recipe by JesseCourse: MainCuisine: IndianDifficulty: Easy
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
30
minutes
Cooking time
20
minutes
Calories
350
kcal
Ingredients
For the Marinade
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1/2 cup water
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional
1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
1 green chili, finely chopped (for added heat)
Serving
Basmati rice or naan bread
Directions
Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a smooth marinade. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Once the shrimp have marinated, you have two options for cooking: grilling or baking. If grilling, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat until they are cooked through, with a slight char on the outside. If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
While the shrimp are cooking, you can prepare the tikka masala sauce. Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger paste, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Next, add the ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, paprika, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir the spices into the onion mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until they release their aromas. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture.
To create a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and add water to achieve your desired consistency. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce and let them simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors. For added richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter at this stage. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can also add a finely chopped green chili.
To finish, garnish the Shrimp Tikka Masala with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve the dish hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread, ensuring you have plenty of the creamy, flavorfu
Conclusion
Shrimp Tikka Masala is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines the delicate taste of shrimp with the bold flavors of Indian spices. It offers a balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether served with rice, naan, or other accompaniments, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds with its rich and creamy sauce.
With a few tips and tricks, you can easily make this restaurant-style dish at home, adjusting the spices and ingredients to suit your preferences. Shrimp Tikka Masala is a great choice for a special dinner or a cozy night in, offering a taste of India’s vibrant culinary tradition.
