The Butter Chicken recipe needs no introduction. For those who have had the pleasure of indulging in this rich and creamy curry, they know that it is one of the most popular and sought-after dishes at any Indian restaurant around the world. Furthermore, the aromatic golden chicken pieces in an incredible creamy curry sauce make this Butter Chicken recipe one of the best you will try.
About Butter Chicken:
At its core, Butter Chicken is a harmonious blend of spices, herbs, and ingredients that create a delectable flavour profile. The dish is known for its creamy texture and the delicate balance between mild spices and a hint of sweetness. Whereas, it is no wonder that Butter Chicken has become one of the most beloved and popular dishes in the world. For those who are new to the dish, Butter Chicken is a tomato-based curry that is infused with a variety of spices such as garam masala, turmeric, and cumin.
On the other hand, chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, spices, and lemon juice, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavour. The dish is then cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made from butter, cream, and tomato puree. Moreover, the resulting dish is a creamy and flavorful masterpiece that is perfect for anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying meal. Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be served with a variety of sides such as naan bread, rice, or even roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
For the chicken marinade:
- 800g chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup plain yoghurt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 1 large onion
- 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 400 g crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek leaves
Instructions:
- All the ingredients for the chicken marinade should be combined in a bowl with the chicken.
- Let the mixture sit for 30 to 60 minutes (or overnight if you have the time).
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in groups of two or three when they begin to sizzle, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Just 3 minutes should be spent frying each side until browned. Keep heated and set aside. (You’ll complete the chicken’s cooking in the sauce.)
- In the same pan, warm up the butter or ghee. The onions should be fried for approximately 6 minutes, sweating occasionally as you scrape off any browned parts that have gotten stuck to the pan’s bottom.
- Add the ground coriander, cumin, and garam masala after sautéing the garlic and ginger for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Stirring periodically, let fry for about 20 seconds or until aromatic.
- Add salt, chili powder, and smashed tomatoes. Stirring periodically, let the sauce boil for 10 to 15 minutes or until it thickens and turns a rich, dark crimson colour.
- Blend the liquid in a blender after taking it off the heat. To make it mix better, you might need to add a few teaspoons of water (up to 1/4 cup). Depending on the size of your blender, work in batches.
- Reintroduce the puréed sauce to the pan. The sauce should be well mixed with the cream, sugar, and crushed fenugreek leaves.
- Reintroduce the chicken into the pan along with any liquids, and simmer for a further 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and boiling.
- Garnish the dish with chopped cilantro and serve with fresh rice and homemade Naan bread.
Nutrition Content:
- Calories:Â 580kcal
- Carbohydrates:Â 17g
- Protein:Â 36g
- Fat:Â 41g
- Saturated Fat:Â 19g
- Cholesterol:Â 250mg
- Sodium:Â 1601mg
- Potassium:Â 973mg
- Fibre:Â 3g
- Sugar:Â 8g
- Calcium:Â 171mg
- Iron:Â 4.1mg
Recipe Notes:
- The colour of your gravy would be determined by the quality and type of tomatoes you use.
- As it is a mild curry, you can alter its taste by using a lot of different spices.
- Moreover, if you look for a healthy diet only, then look for low-fat butter chicken.
- Pure chilli powder – This is not the chili powder that Americans are accustomed to! Other ingredients that ground dried chili are present in American Chili Powder. For a spicy spike, use cayenne pepper or pure chilli powder. There is barely any heat at all.
- Ghee is a clarified butter that is utilized in Indian cuisine (for more information, read this recipe for Movie Popcorn Butter). Moreover, butter or any other cooking oil with a neutral flavour can be used in place of it in this recipe.
- Tomato passata is just pureed tomatoes from cans. These days, you can easily get it in stores, generally next to spaghetti sauce. It costs somewhat more, and occasionally the same as canned tomatoes. known as tomato puree in the US.
To Conclude:
Finally, this dish is perfect for a cosy night in or for entertaining guests. This Butter Chicken recipe is one of the best you will try, and we take pride in using only the finest ingredients to create a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
In conclusion, Butter Chicken is a dish that has won the hearts and palates of millions around the world. Moreover, It is a dish that is not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any occasion. So, whether you are a Butter Chicken aficionado or trying it for the first time, we guarantee that you won’t be disappointed. Come try this recipe today and experience the magic for yourself.
Lastly, If you have any questions about the recipe or want to share your version of Butter Chicken, please feel free to comment. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, I am sure they’ll love it too.
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