If you ask a British person what their favorite food is, one of the most popilar answers will be curry. But it must be an Indian curry, the most popular takeaway food in the UK.
U.K gets its first Indian restaurant
Over 200 years ago the first ‘curry house’ opened in London and it’s been a British food staple ever since. Since then, Indian cuisine has become a $5 billion a year industry.
Chicken Tikka Masala vs Butter Chicken
The difference between Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken is the spice level. The Chicken Tikka has more of a spicy kick compared to Butter Chicken. In addition, Butter Chicken uses a lot more butter and cream. Chicken Tikka Masala is the most popular Indian dish, but it’s not very waistline friendly as it’s loaded with heavy cream. For this recipe, I replaced the cream with milk and yogurt. Switching cream for milk makes this easy Chicken Tikka Masala healthier and it turns out delicious every time. I found my takeaway right in my own kitchen and the leftovers are even better!
London has more Indian restaurants than Mumbai and Delhi!
Wow. But one can’t just live on takeaway food, (well, my friends might beg to differ) because I prefer to make it myself so I know what ingredients I’m eating. So, this started my quest to find my own ‘takeaway’ recipe and this is it!
Chicken Tikka Masala – Step by Step
Chicken breasts are marinated in yogurt and Indian spices. While the chicken marinates, onions are softened in oil and cooked garlic, ginger and more Indian spices. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne, paprika or red pepper flakes. Tomato paste is added to the onions for the start of the rich tomato flavor. Milk, tomato puree/passata and the chicken is then added and simmered to tender perfection.
Chicken Tikka Masala in the Slow Cooker
It is easy to convert this stove-top method to the slow cooker. Make the recipe up to step 4. Instead of adding the chicken to the onions and tomato paste, add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Chicken Tikka Masala Serving suggestion
A side of naan bread is a must when eating Indian food. I just posted a brand new recipe for the EASIEST Naan Bread (< click for recipe). Another delicious side to serve alongside is Indian Lentil Dal. This is pureed tinned tomatoes with no herbs or spices added.
