Chicken Tikka Masala

2 lbs boneless chicken, cubed
1/2 c. olive oil
1 med. onion, minced
1/4 c. minced ginger
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 c. fresh cilantro, minced
8 oz. can tomato sauce
3/4 c. water


Spice Blend:
1/4 c ground sunflower seeds
1 t. salt
1 t. ground coriander
1 t. cumin
1 t. sugar (optional)
1/2 p. black pepper
1/2 t. chili powder
1/8 t. cinnamon
1/8 t. nutmeg
1/8 t. cloves
1/8 t. cardamom

Heat oil in a large saucepan for 1 minute.  Add onion, ginger, and garlic; cook until softened.  Then add spice blend, stir constantly for 1 minute and then add the tomato sauce- cook for 2-3 minutes.  Add chicken cubes, stirring frequently for 8-10 minutes.  Finally add 3/4 cup water, stir and cover for 8-10 minutes more.  Remove from heat, garnish with cilantro.  Serve with rice.  Serves about 6.

This was from a friend and neighbor of mine, Ann Schraedel.  I mixed black, white, and brown rice together, added a little extra water and cooked it a little longer and it really tasted GREAT with the sauce on top.   Thanks for this DELICIOUS recipe Ann!