January 2012 | Life In A Break Down

The Spice Tailor is a range created by the expert in Indian food Anjum Ahand. Available from Waitrose and The Spice Tailor online based on Anjum’s own recipes and offered in seven different flavors there is something to suit every taste all priced with an RRP of just £2.89.

I was sent 2 packets of the Original Tikka Masala to try, and along with the rest of my taste testing family we took on the challenge with gusto.

The Original Tikka Masala comes with 3 packets, which are two sauces (base and main) and one of spice, now I’m not one to eat a hot curry so me and Ash went for just the sauces, while my parents tried it with them included.

It is so simple to put together, if using the spices then added it to oil and simmer for 20 seconds before adding our meat of choice (we used chicken on both occasions), a heat for around 2 minutes before adding the base sauce, then leaving to simmer for a further 2 – 3 minutes before stirring in the main sauce, and leave till meat is cooked through. Easy peasy! (Even a complete non-cooker like me could manage it!). We accompanied ours with rice and Naan bread.

I have to mention right now that the smell of this cooking is amazing! We forgot the Naan bread so I actually did a shop run and left my Mum cooking it up and when we got back in the smell was drool-worthy.

Ohhh how I want to eat it again! I have to admit it is one of the best curries I have ever had a gorgeously creamy sauce with just the right blends of spices, tomatoes and a hint of ginger and garlic. For me it was just right without the added spice (I must be getting soft in my old age), my parents adored it with them added, and even curry novice Ash (bar from the Indian down the road if you count sweet and sour chicken balls and some chips) asked if he could have it again.

Ever wondered what Fred Flintstones crossed with a pirate would look like when about to eat this curry? Well wonder no more as I can also today show you.