What To Know
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt and 1/4 cup of the curry sauce.
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Indulge in the flavors of authentic Indian cuisine with this comprehensive guide on how to make chicken curry dhaba style. Dhaba-style cooking, renowned for its spicy and aromatic dishes, offers a unique blend of spices and ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Follow these simple steps to recreate this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Prepare the Base
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds and toast until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
Create the Spice Blend
5. Add the turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala to the skillet. Stir and cook for 30 seconds, or until the spices become aromatic.
Simmer the Curry
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
8. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Enrich with Yogurt
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt and 1/4 cup of the curry sauce.
10. Gradually add the yogurt mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
Garnish and Serve
11. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
12. Serve the chicken curry hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite sides.
Tips for the Perfect Curry
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your desired level of spiciness.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Garnish with additional cilantro, sliced onions, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
Key Points: A Culinary Adventure to Remember
Making chicken curry dhaba style at home is a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India. With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and rich sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the secret to a flavorful dhaba-style curry?
A: The key lies in the perfect blend of spices and the use of fresh ingredients. Toasting the spices before adding them to the curry enhances their aroma and flavor.
Q: Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftover chicken curry?
A: Allow the curry to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
