Chicken tikka masala facts for kids
Chicken tikka masala
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| Course | Main course |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Indian subcontinent or United Kingdom |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Chicken, yogurt, cream, tomato, onion, garlic, ginger, chili pepper |
| Variations | Lamb, fish or paneer tikka masala |
Chicken tikka masala is a super yummy dish made with roasted chicken pieces covered in a creamy, spicy sauce. It's a type of curry that many people love!
The chicken part, called chicken tikka, is made from boneless pieces of chicken. These pieces are first soaked in a special mix of yogurt and different spices. This soaking process is called marinating. After marinating, the chicken is roasted, often in a very hot oven.
The sauce for chicken tikka masala is usually creamy and has a lovely orange color. While a sauce made with tomato and coriander is common, there isn't one single recipe that everyone uses. This means the taste can be a little different depending on where you try it!
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A Popular Dish
Chicken tikka masala is very popular, especially in the United Kingdom. Many people even call it a "true British national dish"! You can find this delicious dish in restaurants all over the world. It's a favorite for many families and a great way to explore new flavors.
How is it Made?
Making chicken tikka masala involves two main steps: preparing the chicken and making the sauce.
Preparing the Chicken
First, boneless chicken pieces are cut into bite-sized chunks. These pieces are then marinated. The marinade usually includes yogurt to make the chicken tender, along with a mix of spices like ginger, garlic, cumin, and turmeric. This gives the chicken its amazing flavor. After marinating, the chicken is roasted until it's cooked through and slightly charred.
Making the Sauce
The sauce is what makes this dish so special. It often starts with a base of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger. Cream or coconut milk is added to make it rich and creamy. Many different spices are used to create the unique flavor, such as garam masala, paprika, and chili powder. Because there's no single recipe, some sauces might be sweeter, while others are spicier or tangier.
History of Chicken Tikka Masala
The exact origin of chicken tikka masala is a bit of a mystery! Some people believe it comes from the Indian subcontinent, where many delicious curry dishes were created. Others say it was actually invented in the United Kingdom, possibly by chefs who adapted traditional Indian recipes to suit British tastes. No matter where it came from, it has become a beloved dish enjoyed by millions.
