Dairy-Free Tikka Masala Sauce

Discover the rich, comforting flavors of this Dairy-Free Tikka Masala Sauce, a velvety and aromatic recipe that’s perfect for those seeking a creamy, plant-based spin on the classic Indian-inspired dish. Made with full-fat coconut milk for a luscious texture, this sauce combines a medley of warm spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric for an authentic depth of flavor. With sautéed onions, fresh garlic, and ginger providing a savory base, and the subtle sweetness of tomato paste and sugar balancing the heat of optional cayenne pepper, this versatile sauce works beautifully with rice, naan, or your favorite protein and vegetables. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight comfort food that’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and effortlessly delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn.

Step 4

Add the tomato paste and stir constantly for 1 minute to caramelize slightly.

Step 5

Mix in the canned diced tomatoes, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and deepen in flavor.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 8

Add the sugar and stir thoroughly, allowing the sauce to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 9

Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or spice if desired.

Step 10

Remove from heat and use an immersion blender (optional) to achieve a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for more rustic appeal.

Step 11

Serve warm over rice, with naan, or as a base for protein or vegetables of choice.

Step 12

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(999.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1475.0

Total Fat 134.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 107.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.9g
Cholesterol 7.9mg	0%
Sodium 2975.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 69.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.4g	0%
Total Sugars 37.9g
Protein 17.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 340.2mg	0%
Iron 24.7mg	0%
Potassium 2642.9mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 77.7%

Protein: 4.5%

Carbs: 17.9%