Salmon Tikka Masala

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite captures my heart like Salmon Tikka Masala. Growing up, I always looked forward to family dinners where the aromatic spices would fill the kitchen, welcoming everyone home. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chunks of salmon creates a warm embrace for the senses. I can still remember those special evenings, the laughter around the dinner table, and the satisfying, bold flavors dancing on our taste buds. Making Salmon Tikka Masala has become a cherished tradition in my own kitchen, a ritual that brings back fond memories with every bite. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, this dish never fails to impress and comfort. There’s something magical about the way the spices meld together to create an unforgettable experience that warms the heart and soul.

Key Ingredients for Salmon Tikka Masala

The ingredients for Salmon Tikka Masala are thoughtfully selected to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and nutrition. At the heart of this recipe are the bold spices like turmeric and cumin, which provide warmth and depth. The tender salmon fillets not only add protein but also a buttery texture that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Together, these ingredients create a balance of flavor and health that makes this dish irresistible.

• Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the flavors of the salmon and the spices.
• Skinless Salmon Fillet: The star of the dish, providing a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Ghee or Coconut Oil: Used for cooking; ghee adds a nutty flavor while coconut oil makes it dairy-free.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; when sautéed, it caramelizes beautifully.
• Garlic: Essential for aromatics, it brings a pungent flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick, balancing the richness of the sauce.
• Turmeric: This golden spice not only gives color but imparts a warm, earthy flavor.
• Garam Masala: A blend of spices that adds complexity and warmth to the dish.
• Ground Coriander: Provides a citrusy, nutty flavor that complements the other spices.
• Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that is essential to the authenticity of the dish.
• Cayenne Pepper: For those who like a little heat, it brings a spicy kick.
• Ground Cardamom: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
• Canned Petite Diced Tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce, adding acidity and sweetness.
• Coconut Milk: Provides creaminess and a subtle sweetness, balancing the spices.
• Cilantro: Fresh leaves for garnish, adding a burst of flavor and color.

Cooking Method for Salmon Tikka Masala

Cooking Salmon Tikka Masala is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The process is straightforward, yet it leads to a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Follow these detailed steps to create a masterpiece that will impress everyone around your table.

1. Start by seasoning the salmon fillets. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric on both sides of the fish to enhance its natural flavor. This simple step ensures that the salmon is well-seasoned and ready to absorb all the delicious spices later on.
2. Next, heat your choice of ghee or oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. The goal is to create a tender base that will carry the flavors of the other ingredients.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Stir them in and allow them to cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. You want to cook until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden, but be cautious not to burn it as it can become bitter.
4. Now, it’s time to add the spices. Toss in the remaining turmeric, garam masala, ground coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, and ground cardamom. Stir well to combine and let the spices toast for about 1 minute. This step releases their essential oils, intensifying their flavors and creating a fragrant spice mix.
5. After the spices are aromatic, pour in the canned petite diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir to combine all the ingredients, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This will allow the tomatoes to break down slightly and create a rich sauce.
6. While the sauce simmers, take your time to blend the mixture. Carefully transfer the contents of the skillet into a blender, and blend until smooth. This creates a creamy base for your Salmon Tikka Masala, ensuring that all the flavors meld beautifully together.
7. Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet, and season with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir to incorporate, then cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a deeply flavored sauce.
8. Once the sauce has simmered, it’s time to add the coconut milk. Stir it in well, ensuring the coconut milk is fully integrated into the sauce. This will add creaminess and richness to the dish.
9. Now, gently add the seasoned salmon fillets into the sauce, turning them carefully to coat. Make sure each piece is submerged in the flavorful sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
10. Finally, serve your Salmon Tikka Masala warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves on top. This adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the presentation of your stunning dish.

Recipe Notes about Salmon Tikka Masala

To make your cooking experience smoother, here are some helpful tips for preparing Salmon Tikka Masala. These insights will guide you and improve your dish.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce separately from the salmon. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal.
• Variations: Experiment with vegetables like spinach or cauliflower added to the sauce for extra nutrition.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can be used to enhance the dish’s presentation.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Salmon Tikka Masala, the options are plentiful. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce and balance the spices.
• With Naan: Offer warm naan bread on the side, perfect for dipping and enjoying every last bit of the rich sauce.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair this dish with a side of roasted or sautéed vegetables to add color and a healthy dimension to your meal.
• Salads: A fresh cucumber or tomato salad complements the richness of the Salmon Tikka Masala, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, festive gatherings, or even special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
• Leftover Lunch: The next day, enjoy leftovers for a quick lunch, with the flavors often tasting even better after melding overnight.

FAQ

Conclusion

Salmon Tikka Masala is an exquisite dish that perfectly combines flavors and health benefits. Its unique twist on a classic recipe makes it a standout choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try it and experience the delightful harmony of spices and tender salmon for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

Salmon Tikka Masala

The ultimate comfort food, Salmon Tikka Masala brings together tender salmon and aromatic spices in a creamy sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a must-try dish. You'll want to make it tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1.5 lbs Skinless Salmon Fillet cut into 4 pieces
• 0.5 tablespoon Ghee or coconut oil to make it DF, W30
• 0.5 small Onion chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Grated Ginger
• 0.75 teaspoon Turmeric divided
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam Masala
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground Coriander
• 0.75 teaspoon Cumin
• 0.125 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
• 1 cup Canned Petite Diced Tomatoes
• 4 tablespoons Full Fat Canned Coconut Milk shake well
• 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves for serving

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Blender
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Season salmon with 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric.
2. Melt ghee or oil in a medium skillet over medium heat, add onion, garlic, ginger and 6 spices (from turmeric to cardamom) and sauté until the vegetables are soft and the spices are fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer to a blender along with tomatoes and blend until smooth, pour back into the skillet and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, simmer covered on low heat 15 to 20 minutes, until the flavors meld.
4. Stir in coconut milk and add the salmon, turning to evenly coat.
5. Simmer to a gentle boil and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Serve garnished with cilantro.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the sauce separately from the salmon. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Experiment with vegetables like spinach or cauliflower added to the sauce for extra nutrition.
• Tip 5: Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can be used to enhance the dish's presentation.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.