How to Make Delicious Indian Sauces for Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be enhanced with a variety of flavorful sauces. In Indian cuisine, sauces play a crucial role in enriching the taste of grilled meats. Here’s a guide on how to make some delicious Indian sauces that will elevate your grilled chicken experience.

Cilantro Mint Chutney

This refreshing chutney is a perfect accompaniment for grilled chicken, offering a burst of flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1-2 green chilies (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine cilantro, mint, green chilies, lemon juice, salt, and sugar.
  2. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary for consistency.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Tandoori Marinade

This sauce not only works as a marinade but also as a dipping sauce for the grilled chicken.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori masala, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. Marinate the chicken pieces in this mixture for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Ensure to reserve some marinade to use as a sauce while serving.

Tomato Kasundi

This tangy and spicy sauce adds a unique flavor profile to grilled chicken.

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 2-3 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, dry roast mustard seeds until fragrant, then grind to a coarse powder.
  2. Add chopped tomatoes, green chilies, turmeric powder, vinegar, and salt to the saucepan.
  3. Cook on medium heat until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Allow to cool, then blend into a smooth sauce.

Peanut Sauce

This creamy sauce combines the richness of peanuts with spices for a delightful twist.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup roasted peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Water to adjust consistency

Instructions:

  1. Place roasted peanuts in a blender and pulse until finely ground.
  2. Add soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili powder, and blend again.
  3. Gradually add water until you reach your desired consistency.

These Indian sauces are perfect for enhancing the flavor of your grilled chicken. Each sauce brings its own unique taste, whether you prefer a refreshing herb chutney or a spicy tangy kasundi. Try these recipes at your next barbecue, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of India!