Butter Chicken
Embark on a culinary journey with Butter Chicken, a beloved Indian dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich and creamy tomato-based curry. In this comprehensive guide, we'll lead you through the step-by-step process of creating the perfect Butter Chicken at home. Elevate your cooking skills and savor the luxurious flavors of this iconic recipe.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup oil or ghee
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts, soaked
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1/2 cup cream
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Equipment:
- Blender or food processor
- Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai
Step 1: Marinating Chicken
Chicken Marination:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Cooking Butter Chicken
Sautéing Onions:
2. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Tomato Puree and Cashew Paste:
3. Introduce pureed tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the mixture thickens. Blend soaked cashews into a smooth paste and add it to the pan. Mix well.
Spice Mix and Chicken Addition:
4. Stir in coriander powder, garam masala, and kasuri methi. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are tender and cooked through.
Creamy Finish:
5. Pour in cream, stirring continuously. Let the curry simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Garnishing:
6. Garnish Butter Chicken with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
Step 3: Serving and Enjoying
Pairing:
7. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a luxurious and satisfying meal.
Accompaniments:
8. Enhance the experience with a side of cucumber raita or pickles.
Indulge in the creamy perfection of Butter Chicken with this detailed recipe. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this classic Indian dish promises to be a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. Immerse yourself in the richness of spices and the velvety texture of the curry, savoring the satisfaction of creating an authentic Butter Chicken at home.
