Kashmiri Chilli Chicken: A Flavorful, Aromatic Delight with Kashmiri Spices
Introduction
Kashmiri Chilli Chicken is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful spice paste made from Kashmiri chilies and traditional Indian spices. Known for its mild heat and rich red color, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It’s the perfect choice for those who enjoy bold, aromatic flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is Kashmiri Chilli Chicken?
- Main Ingredients of Kashmiri Chilli Chicken
- What Is So Special About Kashmiri Chilli Chicken?
- Quick and Easy Kashmiri Chilli Chicken
- How to Make Kashmiri Chilli Chicken
- Expert Tips
What is Kashmiri Chilli Chicken?
Kashmiri Chilli Chicken is a North Indian-inspired chicken dish that gets its signature color and mild spice from dried Kashmiri chilies. The chicken is marinated and cooked in a rich, spiced gravy that includes ingredients like cashews, honey, and a medley of whole and ground spices. This dish is known for its velvety texture and delicate balance of heat and sweetness.
Main Ingredients of Kashmiri Chilli Chicken
- Chicken: The star protein, cooked until tender and juicy.
- Kashmiri Chilies: The heart of the spice paste, known for their bright red color and mild flavor.
- Cashews: Add a creamy richness to the gravy.
- Aromatic Spices: A mix of whole and ground spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and mace elevate the dish.
What Is So Special About Kashmiri Chilli Chicken?
- Vibrant Color: The rich red hue of this dish comes naturally from Kashmiri chilies, without artificial coloring.
- Balanced Flavors: The combination of mild spices, creamy cashews, and honey creates a well-rounded, irresistible taste.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its restaurant-quality appeal, this dish is simple enough to make at home with pantry staples.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with steamed rice, naan, or parathas for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Quick and Easy Kashmiri Chilli Chicken
This recipe simplifies the cooking process without compromising on the authentic taste. The spice paste can be made in advance, and the cooking steps are straightforward, making it a manageable dish for home cooks.
How to Make Kashmiri Chilli Chicken
1. Prepare the Spice Paste:
- Soak dried Kashmiri chilies in warm water for 10 minutes.
- Grind the chilies with garlic, ginger, bay leaf, mustard seeds, peppercorns, cumin seeds, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, mace, Kashmiri chili powder, turmeric powder, and ¼ cup water to form a smooth paste.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat ½ cup sunflower oil in a large pan.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the prepared spice paste and cook on medium heat until the oil starts to separate.
3. Add the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan and coat them with the spice mixture.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to brown.
4. Prepare the Gravy:
- Add the sliced tomato and cook until softened.
- Stir in the cashew paste and honey, mixing well.
- Add ¼ cup hot water to adjust the consistency and season with salt.
5. Simmer and Garnish:
- Cover the pan and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked and the gravy thickens.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
Expert Tips
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the number of chilies or chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken pieces cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
- Soak Cashews: Soaking cashews in warm water for 10 minutes ensures a smoother paste.
- Prepare in Advance: The spice paste can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy the dish immediately for the best taste, as reheating may slightly alter the texture.
Recipe Note
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