A Taste of India: Murgh Makhani Recipe
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani as it is traditionally known in India, is a dish filled with rich, creamy flavors that will delight your taste buds. This classic North Indian curry is a popular choice for those who appreciate the subtle balance of spices and the luxurious texture of a creamy tomato-based sauce. Let’s dive into the world of Murgh Makhani and learn how to create this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 800g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 4 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp mild chilli powder
– 400g canned chopped tomatoes
– 150ml double cream
– 2 tbsp natural yogurt
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish
– Steamed rice and naan bread, to serve
Preparation:
1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
3. Brown the chicken pieces in batches until golden, then set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and oil. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent.
5. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
6. Add the turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chilli powder. Cook for 2 minutes to release the flavors.
7. Pour in the canned tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the tomato sauce. Cook for a further 10 minutes on low heat.
9. Stir in the cream and yogurt, adjusting the seasoning as needed. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serving:
Serve the Murgh Makhani hot over steamed rice, accompanied by warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. The creamy, buttery sauce paired with tender chicken pieces creates a delightful harmony of flavors that is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh coriander for that final flourish of authenticity.
In Conclusion:
Creating Murgh Makhani at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the authentic taste of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your kitchen. With its rich, buttery sauce and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps carefully, and savor the deliciousness of Butter Chicken right at your dinner table. Bon appétit!