Shrimp Tikka Masala – A Coastal Twist on a Classic Indian Favorite
Shrimp Tikka Masala offers a bold fusion of coastal seafood with the robust richness of North Indian spice blends. This dish is the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers who crave creamy, spicy, and soul-warming meals. While Chicken Tikka Masala has made its name globally, Shrimp Tikka Masala is emerging as the seafood version of this iconic comfort food.
Whether served with basmati rice, naan, or even as a protein-rich bowl, this dish satisfies every craving for something luxurious, spicy, and deliciously creamy.
What is Shrimp Tikka Masala?
Shrimp Tikka Masala is an Indian-inspired dish where juicy shrimp are marinated in yogurt and warm spices, then cooked in a creamy tomato-onion sauce infused with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and chili. Unlike chicken or paneer, shrimp adds a sweet, briny depth that complements the tangy-spiced masala gravy.
Perfectly balanced between spice and richness, Shrimp Tikka Masala is a high-protein, low-carb option for anyone looking to enjoy something satisfying and flavorful without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick-cooking – Shrimp takes only minutes to cook
- Naturally gluten-free
- Lighter than traditional chicken tikka masala
- Bursting with coastal flavors
- A great fusion of seafood with North Indian masalas
Ingredients for Shrimp Tikka Masala
For Marination:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For Masala Gravy:
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 green chili (optional)
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, mix shrimp with yogurt, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 20–30 minutes. This step infuses flavor and helps tenderize the shrimp.
2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
Heat a pan with 1 tbsp oil. Sauté the marinated shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until they curl and turn pink. Remove from pan and set aside. Don’t overcook or the shrimp will become rubbery.
3️⃣ Prepare the Masala Gravy
In the same pan, add 2 tbsp oil. Sauté onions until golden brown. Add garlic, ginger, and green chili and cook until aromatic. Stir in the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, and salt. Cook until oil begins to separate from the masala (about 8–10 minutes).
4️⃣ Finish the Sauce
Lower the heat and add the cream. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add the shrimp back into the gravy and cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot with rice, garlic naan, or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for a meaty bite.
- Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.
- Don’t overcook shrimp – they cook fast and should be added back just before serving.
- For extra richness, add a knob of butter while finishing the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
- Basmati Rice – Soaks up every bit of flavorful gravy
- Garlic Naan or Roti – Perfect for dipping
- Side of Cucumber Raita – Balances the spice
- Pickled Onions or Lemon Wedges – For a tangy contrast
Make It Restaurant-Style at Home
Shrimp Tikka Masala may sound gourmet, but it’s incredibly easy to prepare at home. With basic pantry spices and a quick marinade, it can become your weeknight dinner hero or your dinner party showstopper. The secret lies in the balance: spicy, creamy, tangy, and umami—all in one bite.
Where You Can Enjoy This Dish
If you're not up to cooking, visit Sai Indian Cuisine in Amarillo, TX, where our chefs bring this dish to life with authenticity and love.
Location:
3701 Olsen Blvd, Amarillo, TX 79109
📞 Call: 806-437-1399
📧 Email: saiindiancuisine4@gmail.com