How to Make Classic Indian Sauces at Home

Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and vibrant colors, thanks in large part to its diverse sauces. These classic Indian sauces can elevate any dish, bringing depth and authenticity to your cooking. Here’s how to make some of the most popular Indian sauces right in your own kitchen.

1. Tomato Butter Sauce (Makhan Curry)

This creamy tomato sauce is a staple in many Indian curries. It's rich, tangy, and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 3 large tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Incorporate garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the tomato puree, stir well, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the oil separates from the sauce.
  5. Stir in garam masala and salt. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander.

2. Coconut Curry Sauce

The coconut curry sauce is a beautifully aromatic sauce that works great with vegetables and meats alike.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh curry leaves (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the onions until they turn translucent.
  2. Add the green chilies and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Stir in turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders, mixing well.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk, add salt, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. If using, add fresh curry leaves for added flavor before serving.

3. Green Chutney

This versatile chutney is perfect as a dip or as an accompaniment to various dishes, bringing a fresh and zesty flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
  • 1/2 cup mint leaves
  • 2-3 green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, and salt in a blender.
  2. Add a little water to help with blending.
  3. Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency as desired.
  4. Serve chilled with snacks or as a side with main dishes.

4. Tikka Masala Sauce

This iconic sauce is famously used in dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, bringing a delightful mix of spices and creaminess.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cream
  • 2 tablespoons tikka masala spice mix
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until light brown.
  2. Add tikka masala spice mix and cook for a minute.
  3. Stir in the tomato puree