Delicious Shahi Chicken Korma Recipe | wow mamma kitchen

Introduction

Shahi Chicken Korma easy dinner recipes is a royal dish that has its roots in Mughlai cuisine, known for its rich and flavorful preparations. The term “Shahi” means “royal,” and “Korma” refers to a method of slow-cooking meat with yogurt, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is characterized by its creamy texture, luxurious taste, and the perfect balance of spices. In this article, we will explore an authentic and delicious Shahi Chicken Korma recipe that will transport you to the grandeur of Mughal kitchens.

Ingredients

To create this exquisite Shahi Chicken Korma, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces (preferably bone-in for more flavor)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Korma:

• 3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cashew nuts
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or fresh cream
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Silver leaf (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavors.

2. Prepare the Onion Paste

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Remove the onions from the pan and let them cool. Once cooled, blend the fried onions into a smooth paste using a little water if needed. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Nut Paste

In the same pan, lightly toast the cashew nuts and almonds for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly browned. Allow them to cool, then blend them into a fine paste using a little water or milk. This paste will add richness and a creamy texture to the korma.

4. Cook the Spices

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of ghee or oil. Add the cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aromatic flavors.

5. Add the Ginger-Garlic Paste and Green Chilies

Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears. This step builds the base flavor for the korma.

6. Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, along with the marinade. Cook on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to brown. This helps seal in the flavors.

7. Add the Onion and Nut Pastes

Reduce the heat to low and add the prepared onion paste and nut paste to the pan. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the pastes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

8. Add the Cream and Saffron Milk

Stir in the heavy cream or fresh cream and the saffron milk. Mix well and cook for another 10-15 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the korma has a rich, creamy consistency.

9. Season and Garnish

Add garam masala, ground cardamom, and ground cloves to the korma. Stir well and adjust the salt to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and, if desired, a silver leaf for a royal touch.

Serving Suggestions

Shahi Chicken Korma is best enjoyed with:

1. Basmati Rice: The fragrant, long-grain rice complements the rich flavors of the korma.
2. Naan or Paratha: Soft, buttery naan or flaky paratha are perfect for scooping up the creamy korma.
3. Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish like cucumber raita or mint raita balances the richness of the korma.
4. Salad: A simple salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a squeeze of lemon adds freshness to the meal.

Tips for Success

1. Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will yield the best results, making the meat tender and flavorful.
2. Slow Cooking: Cooking the korma on low heat ensures that the chicken absorbs all the flavors and the sauce achieves the desired creamy consistency.
3. Onion Paste: Browning the onions correctly and blending them into a smooth paste is crucial for the rich texture and taste of the korma.
4. Quality Ingredients: Using fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially spices, will enhance the flavor of the dish.
5. Saffron: Soaking saffron in warm milk helps to release its color and aroma, adding an authentic touch to the korma.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Shahi Korma: Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), mixed vegetables, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
2. Lamb Shahi Korma: Substitute chicken with lamb for a more robust flavor. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the lamb is tender.
3. Spicier Korma: Increase the amount of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder to make the korma spicier.
4. Nut-Free Korma: If you have nut allergies, you can omit the cashew nuts and almonds and use poppy seeds or melon seeds as a thickening agent.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

Conclusion

Shahi Chicken Korma easy dinner recipes is a dish that brings together the richness of Mughlai cuisine with the warmth and comfort of home cooking. Its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and tender chicken make it a perfect choice for special occasions or a delightful weekend meal. By following this recipe, you can create an authentic and delicious Shahi Chicken Korma that will impress your family and guests. So, don your chef’s hat and indulge in the royal flavors of this exquisite dish. Enjoy the culinary journey to the Mughal era with every bite!

Watch the Video Tutorial: Watch it on Youtube

Delight your senses with the richness of Shahi Chicken Korma, a dish fit for royalty. Our recipe promises to bring the flavors of Mughlai cuisine to life in your kitchen, making every meal a special occasion.