I know people love Trader Joe’s frozen Indian entrees, but given some of portion problems we’ve been seeing, why not try Trader Joe’s Tikka Masala Curry Sauce? Yep, it’ll take longer than popping something in the microwave, but not *that* much longer. Start your rice, prep some chicken thighs, and you’re pretty much ready to go.
Per the package, I melted 1 T. of ghee (you can use oil) in the pan and then sauteed about 12 oz.chicken until no longer pink. I would usually do a full pound, but wanted to see what the sauce to chicken ratio would be. The sauce was on the thicker side, so I added 1/4 c. of water along with the sauce since I knew the chicken needed to simmer for about 10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes, I added 2/3 of a bag of baby spinach. (I like to add vegetables wherever I can). After cooking, I garnished with some chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Dinner done.
For me, this is completely mild, no spice at all, though the ingredient list does say it has chili pepper. YMMV. Next time, I’d add at least half a serrano chile to simmer in the sauce. Overall, I enjoyed it. Maya Kaimal’s simmer sauces were my go to for a long time (I really miss the coconut curry they used to have at Costco, but since they went shelf stable, they haven’t been the same). I never tried TJ’s old version in a jar, so I can’t compare.
I was fascinated that ground watermelon seeds were the third ingredient and it seems that they’re used as a thickener. And are sometimes a replacement for cashews or almonds. So it allows them to make a curry that’s vegan and nut-free.
I would definitely buy Trader Joe’s Tikka Masala Curry Sauce again. For $2.99 a pouch, it’s hard to beat. If you want to keep it vegan, you could do tofu, paneer, even some steamed or roasted cauliflower. I could also see using it as a sauce for naan pizza. Cut the chicken up smaller, obviously, for the pizza.
[ED 12/23: Lately I’ve been making this sauce with one can of chickpeas (rinsed and drained) instead of chicken. It’s great and a super affordable way to enjoy this sauce. Let’s just hope TJ’s keeps stocking it.]Check out some other We Tried’s from Trader Joe’s:
Peanut Butter Cocoa Marshmallows