Featured Dish: Tandoori Soya Tikka Masala

Tikka masala is one of those British Indian dishes that carries its own mythology of origin. It’s not “real” Indian food, invented in the UK by an Indian chef to cater to British palates. Some claim it was invented in Birmingham, while others say it was in Glasgow. Either way, it’s become a staple in UK Indian restaurants and for good reason. Tikka Masala literally means flavoured boneless pieces, and while it is usually prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives carry the same mild spice palate that makes this dish so popular with the British public. Our vegetarian tikka masala uses tandoori grilled soy pieces and is a firm favourite on our a la carte menu.

Itihaas Vegetarian Tikka Masala

At our Indian restaurant, most of our menu is dedicated to authentic Mughal cuisine and Indo-Chinese fusion. However, there is always room for a fan favourite.

The Star Ingredient: Soya

Soya protein or tofu is made from curdled soy milk, in much the same way that cheese or paneer is made from curdled dairy milk. Soya is an extremely versatile vegan meat alternative that is protein-rich and absorbs flavour.

We cook Soy Tikka (pieces) in our traditional tandoor or clay oven. Charcoal burning at the base heats the clay walls and the air inside. Skewers of marinated soy tikka rest over the opening of the oven to roast in the heat.

The Marination Process

Marination helps the soya pieces absorb all the flavour of the spices and acids that we want to show up in the final dish. Our chefs prepare the marinade for the soya from spices such as cardamom, turmeric, ginger, chilli, black pepper, garum masala and salt, mixed with yoghurt and a hint of lime juice. The soya is soaked in this marinade overnight so that when we start cooking, the flavour is baked in.

The Masala Sauce

Once cooked, our tandoor soy tikka is plated in a deep, creamy sauce made from ghee, onion, tomato, and our signature spice blend. This is a vegetarian tikka masala that has a mild spice and a luxurious texture.

Health Benefits of Soya

As well as being a great alternative to chicken, soy is high in complete protein without saturated animal fats found in meat. It is also a source of protective antioxidants, preventing premature ageing. There is some evidence to suggest that soya supports bone health, cholesterol balance, heart health, gut health and blood sugar balance.

We want our customers to enjoy their food, but it’s important to us that it is also healthy. There is no sense in making people choose between their health and the best Indian food in Birmingham. Itihaas chefs cook with fresh ingredients, processing as much as possible in our kitchens.

Enjoy our Vegetarian Tikka Masala at Itihaas

There’s a reason we are known by some as the best Indian restaurant in Birmingham. We work hard to provide quality food, exemplary service and a beautiful setting. Visit Itihaas next time you are in Birmingham for our Tandoori Soya Tikka Masala, or come for our thali dining menu instead.