Warm up with this easy and flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala Soup recipe. Made with traditional Indian spices, it's sure to become a new favorite and will have your taste buds dancing and your stomach satisfied.
Chicken Tikka Masala Soup is a delightful fusion of two popular dishes: Chicken Tikka Masala and soup. It combines the rich and flavorful elements of the classic Indian dish, Chicken Tikka Masala, with the comforting and soothing qualities of a warm soup.
The Chief Taster loved this and enjoyed the shredded chicken for a hearty soup. A large bowl was devoured! It was meant to be a starter but with a side of low carb flatbread, it ended up being enough to keep him full for the rest of the day.
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What is chicken tikka masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular and flavorful Indian dish known for its creamy tomato-based sauce and tender pieces of chicken. The creamy tomato-based sauce is the hallmark of Chicken Tikka Masala. It's made from tomatoes, cream, and a blend of spices. Common spices include garam masala, cumin, paprika, and fenugreek leaves. The sauce is simmered until it thickens and becomes rich and flavorful.
Origins of chicken tikka masala
The exact origins of Chicken Tikka Masala are a subject of debate and multiple claims, but it is widely believed to have originated in the United Kingdom rather than in India. One prevailing theory suggests that Chicken Tikka Masala was invented in the 1960s or 1970s in the United Kingdom, particularly in Glasgow or London. It is said to have been created by Indian chefs as a response to the British palate's preference for milder and creamier dishes. The dish's success and popularity among British diners led to its establishment as a quintessential part of British Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
This chicken soup recipe is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken or roast chicken. Grab your spices and get ready to get into soup mode!
- Chicken - either leftover chicken or poach a chicken breast and shred it.
- Stock - chicken broth or vegetable stock.
- Garlic - yes, that is 8 cloves of garlic. If you are nervous about that many, reduce them. The garlic does not over power the spices.
- Olive oil - Coconut oil can also be used.
- Cream - heavy cream is used but coconut cream or coconut milk can be used for a dairy free soup.
- Onion - sauted to add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Ginger - freshly grated ginger.
- Tomato paste - this helps thicken the soup but some variations of this soup use a can of chopped crushed tomatoes.
- Butter - adds to the creamy sauce. Ghee can be used too. If you want a dairy-free soup, omit this and add an extra splash of coconut cream.
- Garam Masala - Garam masala is a vital component of Tikka Masala spice mix. It's a blend of warming spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and black peppercorns.
- Ground Cumin - Cumin adds earthiness and a slightly nutty flavor to the mix.
- Ground Coriander - Ground coriander offers a mild, citrusy, and slightly sweet undertone to the spice blend.
- Chili Powder -For heat and spiciness, chili powder is added. The amount can be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance.
- Turmeric - Turmeric not only imparts a bright yellow color but also contributes a subtle earthy and bitter flavor.
- Ground Fenugreek - Fenugreek leaves or seeds can be used to provide a slightly bitter, nutty taste.
- Salt - Salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the spices.
How to make chicken tikka masala soup
This is a very easy soup to make. You cook the sauce, add cream then the chicken. Serve and enjoy!
Saute the garlic, ginger and onions.
Add the spices.
Add the tomato paste and stir well and simmer for 30 minutes.
Stir in the cream.
Add the shredded chicken and season with salt.
Ready to serve!
Recipe Tips
Adjust the spice level to your preference. If you like it mild, reduce the chili powder; if you prefer it spicier, increase the amount.
Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and spice levels as needed before adding the cooked chicken.
You can purchase pre-made Tikka Masala spice blends at many grocery stores, but making your own at home allows you to customize the flavor to your liking and ensures that the spices are fresh.
Storage
Chicken Tikka Masala often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze Chicken Tikka Masala Soup for later consumption. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before freezing. If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn. The soup will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Defrost in the fridge and reheat it in a saucepan or microwave, stirring occasionally until it's hot and heated through. Be sure to bring it to a boil if it contains dairy products like cream.
What to serve with chicken tikka masala soup
This is a hearty soup by itself but make it a meal with a side of keto naan bread or flatbread. A cool and refreshing cucumber raita can provide a nice contrast to the heat of the soup. It's made with yogurt, cucumber, and spices. A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice over the soup just before serving can enhance the flavors and add a zesty touch.
More comforting low carb soup recipes
For a bowl of pure comfort food, try these other low carb soup recipes:
Cauliflower, Cheese and Jalapeno Soup
Chicken Tikka Masala Soup
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Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 2 tablespoons Grated fresh ginger
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable OR chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons butter
Spice Mix
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the onion, garlic and ginger for 5 minutes.
- Add the spices and cook for a 2 minutes, stirring well.
- Add the tomato paste and stock. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and stir thoroughly. Season with salt to taste.
- Gently add the cooked chicken pieces to the soup and simmer for a few more minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Ladle the Chicken Tikka Masala Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or a drizzle of cream, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.
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