Madras Stewed Chicken. Recipe
Madras Stewed Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that originated from the Madras region in South India. The Madras cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and the clever use of spices, which makes this recipe unique and mouthwatering. The dish is a beautiful combination of tender chicken cooked in a rich and aromatic stew, creating a tantalizing experience for the taste buds.
One interesting fact about Madras Stewed Chicken is that it was originally made with veal, as mentioned in the provided recipe. However, over time, chicken became a popular and more accessible ingredient, making it the star of this delectable dish. This adaptation showcases the flexibility and creativity of Indian cuisine.
Now, let's dive into the details and learn how to prepare this tantalizing Madras Stewed Chicken.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the fennel seeds, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
2. Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook until they turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies to the pan. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell of the garlic disappears.
4. In a small bowl, combine the turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well and add this spice mixture to the pan. Stir to coat the onions and spices evenly.
5. Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and release their juices. Use the back of a spoon to lightly mash the tomatoes, creating a thick base for the stew.
6. Place the chicken pieces into the pan and mix well, ensuring they are coated with the spice mixture. Season with salt to taste.
7. Cover the pan and let the chicken cook in its own juices for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
8. After 10 minutes, add enough water to cover the chicken and bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for another 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally.
9. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves.
10. Serve the Madras Stewed Chicken hot with steamed rice or freshly baked naan bread. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
This delightful Madras Stewed Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, as a main course with rice or bread, or even as a side dish for a larger meal. The rich and aromatic flavors of the spices blend perfectly with the tender chicken, creating a dish that will leave you craving for more.
If you are interested in exploring other similar dishes in Indian cuisine, you might enjoy Chicken Korma, Butter Chicken, or Chicken Tikka Masala. These dishes also showcase a combination of marinated chicken and flavorful sauces, each with its own unique twist on taste and spices.
So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in the culinary adventure of preparing Madras Stewed Chicken. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Madras cuisine and savor every delicious bite!
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