Dairy-Free Tikka Masala Sauce
This Dairy-Free Tikka Masala Sauce is a rich, flavorful, and creamy alternative to the classic dish, perfect for those avoiding dairy without sacrificing bold taste. Made with aromatic spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander, blended with creamy full-fat coconut milk and tangy tomatoes, this sauce delivers a comforting balance of heat and sweetness. Ready in just 40 minutes, it's a versatile base for proteins like tofu, chicken, or simmered vegetables. Whether poured over fluffy basmati rice or paired with warm naan, this recipe is a fuss-free way to enjoy an authentic Indian-inspired dish that's naturally dairy-free and gluten-free. Don't forget the fresh cilantro garnish for an extra burst of flavor!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil
- 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 14-ounce can Canned diced tomatoes
- 1 13.5-ounce can Coconut milk (full-fat)
- 2 teaspoons Ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons Ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons Garam masala
- 1 teaspoon Ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn.
Add the tomato paste and stir constantly for 1 minute to caramelize slightly.
Mix in the canned diced tomatoes, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and deepen in flavor.
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, ground turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Stir well to evenly coat the tomato mixture with the spices.
Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the sugar and stir thoroughly, allowing the sauce to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or spice if desired.
Remove from heat and use an immersion blender (optional) to achieve a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for more rustic appeal.
Serve warm over rice, with naan, or as a base for protein or vegetables of choice.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1454 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 133.4 g | 171% | |
| Saturated Fat | 108.0 g | 540% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 2546 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 69.1 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.1 g | 82% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.5 g | ||
| Protein | 17.0 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 312 mg | 24% | |
| Iron | 21.1 mg | 117% | |
| Potassium | 2572 mg | 55% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
