Prepare Mouth-Watering Veggie Tikka Masala In Just 5 Simple Steps

Veggie Tikka Masala is a rich and savory vegetarian dish that features a medley of marinated vegetables, such as bell peppers, cauliflower, and carrots, cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. The vegetables are first marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic spices like tikka masala, cumin, and coriander. They are then roasted or grilled to achieve a charred, smoky flavor.

Veggie Tikka Masala is a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish that features a variety of vegetables in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. Here’s a straightforward recipe to make it at home:

1. Ingredients

For the Veggie Marinade:

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, cauliflower, carrots, and paneer), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 tablespoon tikka masala spice blend (available at Indian grocery stores)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish

2. Instructions

Step 1- Marinate the Vegetables:

– In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, tikka masala spice blend, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
– Add the mixed vegetables to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
– Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Step 2- Cook the Vegetables:

– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill.
– Arrange the marinated vegetables on a baking sheet or grill rack.
– Bake or grill for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 3- Prepare the Masala Sauce:

– Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
– Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.
– Add the crushed tomatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until the tomato sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate.
– Stir in the sugar (if using) and adjust the seasoning with salt.

Step 4- Combine and Simmer:

– Add the roasted or grilled vegetables to the masala sauce. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the sauce.
– Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
– Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5- Garnish and Serve:

– Garnish with fresh cilantro.
– Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Veggie Tikka Masala!