Butter chicken is a globally adored dish known for its rich, creamy sauce that perfectly balances tangy tomatoes with warm spices and velvety butter. While the dish itself is popular, the real star of the show is the butter chicken simmer sauce. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, making this sauce at home can transform your meals, giving you a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.
What is Butter Chicken Simmer Sauce?
Butter chicken simmer sauce is a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce that is used as the base for the popular Indian dish, butter chicken (also known as murgh makhani). This sauce is characterized by its vibrant orange color, smooth texture, and a perfect blend of tomatoes, cream, butter, and a variety of aromatic spices.
While butter chicken is typically made by simmering marinated chicken in this sauce, the sauce itself is incredibly versatile. You can use it with vegetables, paneer, tofu, or even pasta to create a delicious, comforting meal.
History and Origins
Butter chicken simmer sauce originated in Delhi, India, during the 1950s at a restaurant called Moti Mahal. The story goes that the restaurant’s chefs needed to use up leftover tandoori chicken and came up with a sauce made from tomatoes, butter, and cream to keep the chicken moist. The result was the creation of butter chicken, with its rich, creamy sauce becoming the highlight of the dish. Over the years, this sauce has evolved and spread across the world, becoming a staple in Indian cuisine and beyond.
Essential Ingredients for Butter Chicken Simmer Sauce Recipe
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore the essential ingredients you’ll need to create an authentic butter chicken simmer sauce:
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the base of this sauce. They provide the tangy, slightly sweet flavor that is balanced by the other ingredients. Canned tomatoes or tomato puree can also be used for convenience.
Butter: Butter is a key ingredient that gives the sauce its name. It adds richness and a smooth, creamy texture to the sauce.
Cream: Heavy cream or full-fat cream is used to create the luxurious, velvety texture that defines this sauce. It also helps to mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Spices: A blend of spices is crucial for achieving the authentic flavor. Key spices include:
- Garam Masala: A mix of ground spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.
- Turmeric: Adds a warm, earthy flavor and the vibrant yellow-orange color.
- Cumin: Provides a deep, slightly nutty flavor.
- Coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet note.
- Red Chili Powder: Provides heat and enhances the color of the sauce.
- Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi): Adds a unique, slightly bitter flavor that balances the sauce.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger paste are essential for adding depth and complexity to the sauce. They provide a fragrant base that complements the spices.
Onions: Finely chopped onions are sautéed until golden brown, adding sweetness and body to the sauce.
Yogurt (Optional): Some recipes include a small amount of yogurt for added tanginess and creaminess.
Honey or Sugar: A touch of sweetness is often added to balance the tangy tomatoes and the heat from the spices.
How to Make Butter Chicken Simmer Sauce: Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 2 cups pureed tomatoes (or canned tomato puree)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Sauté the Onions
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and starts to sizzle, add 1 finely chopped large onion. Stir occasionally and cook the onions until they turn golden brown. This process usually takes about 10 minutes and is critical for developing the base flavor of the sauce. The onions should soften and caramelize slightly, adding a natural sweetness to the dish.
Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the onions have achieved a golden color, add 3-4 minced garlic cloves and 1 inch of minced fresh ginger. Stir the mixture continuously and cook for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the raw smell of garlic and ginger fades, giving way to their aromatic fragrance. This step builds the depth of flavor that will later complement the spices.
Add the Spices
Lower the heat slightly to prevent the spices from burning, then add garam masala (1 teaspoon), turmeric (1/2 teaspoon), cumin powder (1 teaspoon), coriander powder (1 teaspoon), and red chili powder (1/2 teaspoon, adjusted to your preference) to the pan.
Mix the spices thoroughly into the onion, garlic, and ginger base. Toast them gently for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to release their rich aromas. This process deepens the flavor and creates a warm, fragrant foundation for the sauce.y. This allows the spices to release their full aroma and flavor, creating a warm, fragrant base for the sauce.
Add the Tomatoes
Now, pour in 2 cups of pureed tomatoes (or canned tomato puree if using). Stir to fully combine the tomatoes with the spices and onion mixture. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the sauce cooks, it will thicken, and you’ll start to see the oil separate from the tomatoes. This step is essential to reduce the tomatoes’ acidity and to concentrate the sauce’s flavors.
Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. As you mix, the sauce will turn a beautiful, rich orange color. Let it simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cream to enhance the sauce’s smoothness and richness. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning.
Add Fenugreek Leaves and Sweetener
Next, crush 1/4 teaspoon of dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi) between your palms to release their aroma and sprinkle them into the sauce. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar to balance the acidity and spice with a hint of sweetness. Stir everything together, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
Adjust Consistency and Finish
Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. If it appears too thick, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to reach your preferred consistency. If it seems too thin, continue simmering until it thickens to your liking.
Garnish and Serve
Once the sauce has reached the perfect consistency, remove it from the heat. Optionally, garnish the sauce with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Your butter chicken simmer sauce is now ready to be enjoyed! Use it immediately with cooked chicken, paneer, or vegetables, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Butter Chicken Simmer Sauce
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, garlic, and ginger make a significant difference in the flavor of your sauce. If you’re using canned tomatoes, choose high-quality brands for the best results.
Balance the Flavors: The key to a great butter chicken sauce is balance. Taste as you go and adjust the spices, cream, and sweetener to achieve the perfect harmony of flavors.
Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Take your time when cooking the onions and tomatoes. Properly caramelized onions and reduced tomatoes are essential for developing the rich, complex flavors of the sauce.
Make in Batches: This sauce freezes well, so consider making a large batch and storing it in portions for quick and easy meals later.
Experiment with Variations: While this recipe is a classic version, feel free to experiment with other ingredients like coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
How to use butter chicken simmer sauce?
Butter chicken simmer sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance your meals. The most common use is to cook marinated chicken in the sauce to make the classic butter chicken dish. However, you can also use it as a flavorful base for other ingredients like paneer, tofu, or vegetables. Simply simmer your choice of protein or veggies in the sauce until they are cooked through and well-coated. It also works wonderfully as a pasta sauce or as a dip for naan or bread. You can even freeze the sauce for later use, making it a convenient option for quick meals.
How to cook butter chicken with simmer sauce?
To cook butter chicken with simmer sauce, start by marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices, then cook it until golden brown. In a separate pan, warm the butter chicken simmer sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors blend. Stir occasionally until the chicken is fully coated and tender. Serve hot with rice or naan for a delicious, restaurant-quality meal.
Final Thoughts
Butter chicken simmer sauce is more than just a component of a popular dish—it’s a flavorful, versatile sauce that can enhance a variety of meals. By following this guide, you can master the art of making butter chicken simmer sauce at home, tailoring it to your taste and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this sauce is sure to impress with its rich, creamy texture and perfect balance of spices. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques, and enjoy the process of creating a sauce that’s truly your own.
How can one make butter chicken simmer sauce dairy-free?
To make butter chicken simmer sauce dairy-free, individuals can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
What can be used instead of fenugreek leaves in butter chicken sauce?
If fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi) are unavailable, mustard greens or a small amount of maple syrup can be used as alternatives to achieve a similar flavor.
Can butter chicken simmer sauce be used for other dishes?
Yes, butter chicken simmer sauce is versatile and can be used with paneer, tofu, vegetables, or even as a pasta sauce or dip for naan.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
To make the sauce less spicy, reduce the amount of red chili powder or use a milder chili powder. For more heat, you can add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can butter chicken simmer sauce be frozen?
Yes, butter chicken simmer sauce can be frozen. It should be stored in an airtight container and can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.