How to Master the Exquisite Art of Preparing Chettinad Chicken Curry- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Prepare Chettinad Chicken Curry

Chettinad chicken curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that originates from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, India. Known for its rich spices and vibrant colors, this dish is a true delight for the taste buds. If you’re looking to recreate this mouthwatering recipe at home, follow these simple steps to prepare Chettinad chicken curry.

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 kilogram of chicken pieces (preferably chicken thighs)
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon of urad dal
– 1 teaspoon of chana dal
– 10-12 curry leaves
– 2 green chilies, slit
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon of fennel powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing)
– 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons of yogurt
– 2 tablespoons of coconut milk (optional)
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparation

1. Clean and wash the chicken pieces, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot or pressure cooker over medium heat.
3. Add the mustard seeds, urad dal, and chana dal to the oil. Allow them to splutter.
4. Add the mustard seeds, urad dal, and chana dal to the oil. Allow them to splutter.
5. Add the curry leaves, green chilies, and asafoetida to the pot. Sauté for a minute.
6. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
7. Add the ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, fennel powder, and fenugreek powder to the pot. Sauté for another minute.
8. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and the oil separates from the mixture.
9. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they are well coated with the spices.
10. Add salt to taste and mix well.
11. Pour in the yogurt and coconut milk (if using) and mix well.
12. Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
13. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
14. Once the curry is ready, add the garam masala and mix well.
15. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or roti.

Now you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Chettinad chicken curry at home. Happy cooking!