No. Chicken tikka masala that is usually made does not contain gluten-free ingredients. The recipe used by some people may contain gluten ingredients. Chicken is marinated in a spice and yoghurt mixture, then cooked in curry sauce to create chicken tikka masala. The result is a rich, creamy meal that goes well with naan or rice. Since the name “Chicken Tikka Masala” means “bits of chicken,” this dish often consists of smaller pieces of marinated chicken grilled in a tandoor. As it contains extra masala spice, chicken tikka masala is a hotter variety of this dish. Is chicken tikka masala gluten free?
Gluten is generally not present in Indian cuisine produced with rice, meat, veggies, curries, lentils and delicious snacks like tikkas and pakoras.
What is Gluten and Why is it a Concern for those with Gluten Sensitivities?
Gluten is a protein. Grains such as wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten. Everyday foods and beverages, such as pasta, cereal, and beer, contain it. If you become ill after consuming gluten, you might have gluten sensitivity. You can experience fatigue, nausea, or bloating.
Some people’s autoimmune systems react negatively to gluten.
This indicates that their systems attempt to fight gluten as though it were a virus. It is known as celiac disease. Their digestive tracts get inflamed and damaged as a result of this reaction. Many of the symptoms of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity are similar.
Some of the symptoms of gluten intolerance/sensitivity are abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, headache, and bloating or gas.
If you have celiac disease or a gluten allergy, check the ingredients of the specific recipe that you are using or ordering at the restaurant to be sure it is gluten-free.
Is Chicken Tikka Masala Typically Made with Gluten-containing Ingredients?
No. it isn’t.
However, the ingredients used in a dish might change depending on the specific recipe, and certain versions might contain gluten ingredients.
For instance, the marinade for the chicken may have gluten-containing substances such as soy sauce made from wheat or malt vinegar.
The sauce may also include gluten-containing components like a roux or wheat-based thickening agents like flour. Reading the label to ensure it does not contain gluten-containing components is always a good idea.
The authentic chicken tikka masala recipe consists of these ingredients: chicken thigh fillets (cut into cubes), garlic, cumin, ginger, ground coriander, chili powder, garam masala, paprika, and yogurt for the making of chicken pieces and ginger, large tomatoes, ground spices – coriander, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder for the sauce. Out of these, some ingredients, such as domestic coriander, may contain gluten. So, it is better to check for gluten in the ingredients before using.
Is Chicken Tikka Masala Gluten Free?
As previously mentioned, it depends on the ingredients.
However, by utilizing gluten-free replacements for these ingredients, it is also possible to prepare gluten-free variations of chicken tikka masala. For instance, soy sauce can be replaced with tamari or coconut aminos, while wheat flour or thickeners made from wheat can be replaced with rice flour or cornstarch.
So, let us tell you about a gluten-free recipe for making chicken tikka masala.
Ingredients:
- Chicken tenderloins or skinless/boneless chicken breast cut into pieces
- Onion, finely chopped
- Jalapeno pepper, halved and seeded
- Olive oil
- Bay leaf
- Garlic cloves
- Fresh ginger root
- Yogurt
- garam masala – gluten free
- McCormick Ground Cinnamon – gluten-free
- McCormick Cayenne Pepper – gluten-free
- McCormick Ground Cumin – gluten-free
- McCormick Ground Paprika – gluten-free
- Clabber Girl Cornstarch – gluten-free
- Tomato puree or Big tomatoes
- Cooked Jasmine or basmati rice
Instructions:
- Combine the seasonings in a bowl, then leave aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt and cornstarch; put aside.
- Heat the oil in a pressure cooker over moderate heat. Add the garlic and ginger after the onion has been cooking for a few minutes to become soft.
- Add the chicken and seasonings by stirring. The tomato puree, jalapeno pepper, and bay leaf come next.
- Cook for 10 minutes with the pressure cooker lid closed.
- Release the pressure quickly, then take it out and discard the bay leaf.
- Cooking should continue at medium heat. Add the cornstarch mixture and yogurt after mixing. Simmer for a few more minutes to bring the sauce to a thick consistency. Serve with basmati rice or jasmine rice.
In this way you can make your gluten-free chicken tikka masala.
What are Some Gluten-free Alternatives to Chicken Tikka Masala?
Thankfully, the majority of Indian cuisine is inherently gluten-free. Here are several chicken tikka masala alternatives that are free of gluten;
- Vegetable Pakoras
- Chicken/Tofu/Shrimp Tikka or Tandoori
- Palaak Paneer
- Chana Masala
- Dahl Makhani
- Rogan josh
Keep away from seasonings and spices that have wheat or wheat flour included to prevent caking or to thicken the curry.
How to Dine Out Safely When Following a Gluten-free Diet?
Locate Restaurants that are Gluten-free
Websites for restaurants are common. These restaurants’ meals are typically available online as samples or whole menus. Use social media sites like Facebook or Instagram if there isn’t an official website.
Communicating your Needs to the Server
Alternatively, you can contact them in advance and ask to talk with the management or chef to inquire about their gluten-free menu selections.
Throughout your conversation, describe your issue as completely as you can.
Inform them that you have a medical condition, such as celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, and that you must follow a gluten-free diet.
Double-checking Ingredients Before Ordering
Make sure to mention your dietary limitations when dining out. If you have any questions regarding the menu items, ask to speak with the chef personally.
After that, inquire as to whether the gluten-free products mentioned on the menu are indeed gluten-free and what can be done to guarantee your safety while dining there.
Inquire about the thickeners, coatings, spice mixtures, etc., to make sure your food is completely gluten-free. Also, you can inquire about individual prep areas, cookware, utensils, etc.
When receiving your order, make sure to carefully and thoroughly inspect your meal. Respectfully notify the personnel that you are not allowed to have even a speck if you see one.
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Video Credits – Tasty
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