Chicken Tikka Masala: Unravelling The History Behind It

Chicken Tikka Masala is a classic Indian dish. Everyone loves this dish worldwide. It is a delicious combination of marinated chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce. So, it’s not hard to understand why it’s become so popular Indian dish. The aromatic herbs and unique mix of flavors make this dish genuinely one-of-a-kind.

This blog post will explore Chicken tikka masala’s origins and what makes it such a beloved dish.

What Is Chicken Tikka Masala?

Tikka masala has dietary and regional variations and is a popular Indian dish. Tikka masala is another name of chicken tikka masala. We make this spice curry with tender roasted marinated chicken chunks. Anyone can enjoy this delicious dish anytime as it serves hot in Indian restaurants. 

Firstly, we marinate the chicken with spices and yogurt and then grill them in a tandoori oven. After it, we cook them in creamy tomato sauce. Depending on the chef’s preferences, this sauce can range from mild to spicy. The tomato sauce usually contains garlic, onion, cumin, ginger, garam masala, coriander, cayenne pepper, and other spices. The combination of spices gives Chicken Tikka Masala its signature savory flavor with a hint of sweetness.

What Is the Story Behind Chicken Tikka Masala?

The irony is that the subject is highly debatable and a source of contention for many, like many great things. Some say it has deep roots in India, while others believe it’s a British take on curry. Many others had obsessed with the fact that it was born in Glasgow, Scotland.
However, the story of the Ali family is essential to any discussion of the origins of chicken tikka masala. 1971, on a stormy night in Glasgow, an off-duty bus driver stopped at a nearby Indian restaurant for a plate of chicken curry. 

The chef, Ali Ahmed Aslam, delivered the dish. But the bus driver returned it because it was too dry. Ali used what he had on hand to add moisture to the dish: a simmering, creamy tomato soup. The new dish satisfied the bus driver. So, he returned to Ali’s shop for years, bringing his friends and family with him. He created chicken tikka masala consequently.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala Popular Today?

The popularity of Chicken Tikka Masala has spread far beyond its origins in India, becoming an international favorite in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
It has been hailed as America’s “national dish,” with chefs from all corners of the country offering their take on the classic dish. It is widely available in restaurants worldwide. However, some cooks prefer to rustle up their homemade version at home.

The continuing popularity of Chicken tikka masala today shows no signs of slowing down. Its flavor and versatility have earned it a place in kitchens worldwide. So, people from all walks of life enjoy it.

The Final Thoughts

The origin of chicken tikka masala remains disputed and is a contentious matter. Though, we can learn from this story that it’s a trendy dish and has been enjoyed worldwide for decades. Its delicious combination of creamy tomato-based sauce, spices, and marinated chicken makes it easy to see why it continues to be loved by so many!

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