Butter Chicken | The Romantic Curry | 3 Step Easy Recipe

The Crown Jewel of Indian Cuisine

In the land of Desi cuisine, few dishes carry the same level of appeal and enchantment as Butter Chicken. Often hailed as the "Romantic Curry", this iconic dish boasts a velvety texture and a symphony of flavors that captivates the senses. Join us on a culinary journey as we visit the world of Butter Chicken, exploring its rich history, revealing its taste profile, and ultimately uncovering the magic of creating this romantic masterpiece in your own kitchen.

 

History & Origin: The origins of Butter Chicken trace back to the kitchens of Delhi, India, where Moti Mahal restaurant claims that this “Legend Was Born” as a solution to leftover tandoori chicken. The invention of this mouth-watering dish regarded as, Butter Chicken Also Known AS Murgh Makhani must be a divine inspiration. Its luxurious sauce, enriched with butter and cream, elevated this curry into culinary stardom. Today, Butter Chicken stands as a symbol of indulgence, with its roots deeply embedded in the heart of North Indian cuisine.

 

Butter Chicken in the Western World: A Gateway to Desi Cuisine

As the allure of Desi cuisine swept across the globe, Butter Chicken emerged as a luscious ambassador, charming its way into the hearts and palates of the Western world. From the vibrant streets of Sydney to the bustling avenues of New York, this delectable dish has become synonymous with the introduction to and celebration of Indian flavors. Its creamy, tomato-based sauce and tender pieces of chicken, infused with a melange of spices, have worked as an enticing hook for newcomers venturing into the vast culinary world of Desi foods.

In the Western culinary landscape, Butter Chicken holds a special place, often serving as the gateway for those exploring Indian cuisine for the first time. The harmonious blend of familiar ingredients, such as butter and cream, with exotic spices provides a comforting introduction to the rich complexities of Desi flavors. Its mild yet flavorful profile caters to a wide range of taste preferences, making it a welcoming option for those taking their initial steps into the diverse world of Indian gastronomy.

In virtually any restaurant or takeaway offering Desi foods in the Western world, Butter Chicken invariably takes center stage. Its presence on menus serves as a comforting beacon, inviting curious diners to venture beyond the familiar and embrace the aromatic journey that Desi cuisine promises. The dish's popularity is proof of its ability to bridge culinary traditions, effortlessly weaving its way into the Western palate and leaving a lasting impression that often evolves into a love affair with the broader spectrum of Indian dishes.

Beyond its culinary appeal, Butter Chicken carries cultural significance, symbolizing the interconnectedness of global flavors. It has become a dish that not only go beyond borders but also sparks conversations about the richness and diversity of Indian culinary heritage. From casual neighbourhood eateries to fine dining establishments, the presence of Butter Chicken highlights its status as an ambassador, fostering an appreciation for Desi cuisine and paving the way for more adventurous culinary explorations.

 

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Taste Profile: Butter Chicken is a celebration of contrasts – the succulence of tender chicken pieces, bathed in a creamy tomato-based sauce harmonizes sweet and savory notes. The delicate blend of spices, often featuring garam masala, fenugreek, and Kashmiri red chili powder, imparts a rich and distinct flavor. The addition of butter and cream elevates the dish, creating a velvety texture that coats each morsel in a comforting embrace. The result is a curry that rise above its humble ingredients to become a romantic symphony for the palate.

 

Regional Charisma: While Butter Chicken finds its roots in Delhi, its irresistible charisma has spread far and wide, making it a beloved dish on Desi tables globally. Each region adds its unique touch – some infuse smoky flavors by incorporating the tandoor, while others adjust the spice levels to suit local preferences. Yet, the underlying essence of indulgence and romance remains, making Butter Chicken a dish that go beyond geographical boundaries.

 

Cooking Techniques: Crafting the perfect Butter Chicken requires a delicate balance of flavors and precise techniques. Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices before grilling or roasting adds depth to the dish. The velvety sauce is created by simmering tomatoes and a blend of spices until a harmonious union is achieved. The addition of butter and cream at the end imparts a luxurious finish, ensuring each bite is an experience in decadence.

 

Love Desi Foods Tried, Tested, Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe

 

Step 1: Tandoori Chicken/Chicken Tikka

Ingredients:

• 1 kg boneless chicken
• Marinade:
• 2 Tbsp. Mustard oil
• 2 Tbsp. Kashmir Red chilli powder
• 2 Tbsp. Ginger Garlic paste
• 1 Tbsp. Coriander powder (Dhaniya)
• 1 tsp Cumin powder (Jeera)
• ½ tsp Turmeric powder (Haldi)
• 1 tsp Dried Fenugreek leaves (Kasuri methi)
• 1 tsp Mango (Amchur powder)
• ½ tsp Black salt
• 1 tsp Garam masala
• 1 Tbsp. Fresh mint
• 1 Tbsp. Fresh Coriander
• Salt to taste
• ½ cup Thick Yoghurt (Plain)
• 1 Tbsp. Lemon juice
• ½ tsp. Oil for smoking

Method:

1.   Cut the chicken into small cubes for even cooking.

2.   Rub lemon juice and ginger garlic paste onto chicken cubes and let it sit for 15 minutes.

3.   Mix all remaining marinade ingredients together, add chicken, and marinate for at least 1-2 hours (Overnight in the fridge, if possible).

4.   Grill the chicken or bake in the oven at 220°C until golden brown.

 

If you are using Microwave or Oven to cook your chicken, follow these additional steps to achieve The Smokey Tandoori flavor.

1.   Place marinated chicken in a high dish or pot that has a tight lid.

2.   Put a silver foil cup in the middle and place a hot charcoal in it.

3.   Pour some oil or butter on the hot charcoal and close the lid.

4.   Let it smoke for 15 minutes.

5.   Now cook the chicken in your microwave/oven until done.

6.   Take it out and leave it to rest.

 

Step 2: Gravy Base

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp. Butter
• 3-4 medium-sized Onions, sliced
• 10-15 cloves Garlic
• 1-inch Ginger, roughly chopped
• 3-4 Green chillies
• 1 tsp Cumin Powder (Jeera)
• ½ tsp Turmeric powder (Haldi)
• ½ tsp Dried Fenugreek Leaves ground (Kasuri methi)
• 6-7 Whole Kashmiri Red chillies
• Whole Spices

·         3-4 Green cardamom (Green Illachi)

·         4-5 cloves

·         1 piece cinnamon

·         4-5 Whole Black peppercorns

·         1 Bay Leaf

·         1-2 Black Cardamom (Black Illaichi)

• 1 kg Tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup Cashew nuts
• A small handful of Coriander stems (no leaves)
• Salt to taste

Method:

1.   Sauté onions in butter until slightly translucent.

2.   Add garlic, ginger, green chillies and fry for a minute.

3.   Tie whole spices into a muslin cloth and add to onions. Add remaining spices and whole Kashmiri Chilli. Cook for a minute.

4.   Add tomatoes, cashew nuts, coriander stems, and salt. More butter can be added if desired. Cook for 5 minutes on medium-high heat.

5.   Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring to avoid sticking. (Normally don’t require any water as the tomatoes release water).

6.   Once tomatoes are cooked, let it cool, remove the bundled whole spices and then grind the mixture into a puree. (You can add a little water at this stage to make it easy to grind and strain).

7.   Strain the puree, discard seeds and set gravy aside.

 

Step 3: Final Cooking

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. Butter
• 1 tsp Oil
• Makhani gravy base
• Hot water as required
• 1 tsp Sugar/honey
• Grilled chicken
• ½ tsp Toasted Kasuri methi
• ½ tsp Garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp. Butter
• 5-6 tbsp. Fresh cream
• Fresh coriander, chopped

Method:

1.   Add strained Makhani gravy base. Adjust consistency with hot water.

2.   Add sugar/honey and cook for 5-10 minutes on medium flame.

3.   Add grilled chicken, cook for 10 minutes, and adjust consistency with hot water if needed.

4.   Add Dried Fenugreek Leaves ground and garam masala.

5.   Check salt and adjust if required. (be careful if using salted butter)

6.   Lower heat, add butter and fresh cream, stir well, and cook for a minute.

7.   Finish with freshly chopped coriander.

8.   Serve hot with butter garlic paratha, naan, or your favorite Indian bread.

 

Conclusion: Butter Chicken, the Romantic Curry, invites you to experience the magic of culinary seduction. With its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and a blend of spices that dance on the taste buds, this dish outdoes the ordinary to become a symbol of indulgence and love. As you embark on the journey of crafting Butter Chicken in your kitchen, let the aroma of spices and the velvety texture of the sauce transport you to a world where every bite is a celebration of romance in culinary form.Top of Form