Murgh Makhani is an iconic dish in Punjabi cuisine. It is loved for special occasions and gatherings. The dish embodies the rich agricultural heritage of the region, with its emphasis on chicken and dairy products. It has gained global popularity and is now a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide.
Murgh Makhani: Punjab Special Chicken Curry
4
servings20
minutes40
minutesPunjabi Chicken Curry, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular dish from the Punjab region of India. It is renowned for its rich and creamy tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices. This dish beautifully combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious sauce, resulting in a delightful and satisfying meal.
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Ingredients
500 grams chicken, cut into pieces
2 onions, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon red chili powder
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 cup yogurt
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Directions
- Heat oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are sealed and lightly browned.
- Pour in the yogurt-spice mixture and stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and kasuri methi. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan bread, roti, or steamed rice.
Quick Notes
- Use bone-in chicken pieces, such as drumsticks or thighs, for added flavor and juiciness.
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight to enhance the tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences. Add more or less red chili powder and garam masala accordingly.
- To make the curry extra creamy, you can add a tablespoon of cashew paste or ground almonds along with the cream.
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) adds a distinct flavor to the dish. Crush it between your palms before adding it to release its aroma.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and added visual appeal.
Health Benefits:
Murgh Makhani is a good source of lean protein from the chicken. The spices used in the curry, such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic, have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the dish contains cream and butter, so moderation is key for those watching their fat and calorie intake.
