Can you make chicken tika masala with sour cream instead of double cream?

You absolutely can use sour cream instead of double cream in Chicken Tikka Masala! Here's how to make it work:

Understanding the Differences:

* Double cream: Provides a richer, thicker sauce with a higher fat content.

* Sour cream: Thinner, tangier, and less fatty.

Tips for Using Sour Cream:

1. Start with less: Use about 2/3 the amount of sour cream you would normally use of double cream. You can always add more later if needed.

2. Reduce the sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to thicken it up. This helps to compensate for the thinner consistency of sour cream.

3. Add a little cornstarch: A slurry of cornstarch and water can further thicken the sauce if needed.

4. Adjust for tanginess: Sour cream has a natural tang, so you might want to reduce the amount of lemon juice or other acidic ingredients in your recipe.

5. Taste and adjust: It's essential to taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed.

Here's a basic recipe using sour cream:

Ingredients:

* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

* 1 tsp garam masala

* 1 tsp ground cumin

* 1 tsp ground coriander

* 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

* 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

* 1/4 cup plain yogurt

* 1 tbsp olive oil

* 1 onion, chopped

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

* 1/2 cup sour cream

* 1/4 cup tomato paste

* 1 tbsp lemon juice

* Salt and black pepper to taste

* Cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), yogurt, and salt. Add the chicken and mix well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the chicken and spices: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.

4. Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sour cream, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.

5. Simmer and thicken: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Serve and garnish: Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite sides. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Remember: Feel free to adjust the amount of sour cream and other ingredients to achieve your desired flavor and consistency. Enjoy!