Kashmiri Butter Chicken

Kashmiri Butter Chicken Recipe - Authentic Indian Cuisine

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kashmiri Butter Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that originates from the beautiful region of Kashmir in India. This dish is known for its creamy texture and aromatic spices that make it a favorite among many food enthusiasts.

History

Kashmiri Butter Chicken has its roots in the traditional cuisine of Kashmir, which is known for its use of rich and aromatic spices. The dish has evolved over the years, with different variations being created to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

1 roasting chicken, jointed or 6 thighs or 750 g fillets diced
3 tbsp Charmaine Solomon's Tandoori Tikka Marinade
0.25 tsp saffron strands or pinch of powder
1 tbsp ghee
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup tomato puree (not paste)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp finely shredded fresh ginger, optional
0.5 cup cream or evaporated milk
0.25 cup chopped fresh coriander

How to prepare

Rub the chicken with the marinade and set it aside for 30 minutes.
Lightly toast the saffron strands in a dry pan for a minute, being careful not to burn them.
Place the toasted saffron on a saucer and crush it with the back of a spoon, then dissolve it in a tablespoon of hot water.
Scrape off any excess marinade from the chicken and save it for later.
In a large frying pan, heat the ghee and oil and fry the chicken until it is lightly browned.
Stir together the remaining marinade, tomato puree, sugar, and dissolved saffron. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Sprinkle shredded ginger into the pan, cover it, and simmer until the chicken is tender. Stir in the cream and heat it gently.
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with chopped coriander leaves and saffron pilau.

Variations

Add cashew nuts or almonds for a richer texture.
Use yogurt instead of cream for a lighter version of the dish.
Add dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Toasting the saffron before adding it to the dish helps to enhance its flavor.

- Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and dry.

- Garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kashmiri Butter Chicken with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating the chicken helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

- Simmering the chicken in the sauce helps to develop the flavors and create a rich and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken breast instead of thighs or fillets.

- Substitute ghee with butter for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. This helps to save time on busy days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kashmiri Butter Chicken in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh coriander leaves and saffron strands for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of vegetable curry or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (evaporated milk) and nuts (saffron).

Summary

Kashmiri Butter Chicken is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Kashmiri Butter Chicken is a delicious and aromatic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is a perfect choice for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Kashmiri Butter Chicken. It was many years ago, when I was traveling through the beautiful region of Kashmir. The air was crisp and fresh, the mountains towering majestically in the distance. I had heard about the famous Kashmiri cuisine and was eager to try it for myself.

One day, as I wandered through the bustling markets of Srinagar, I came across a small restaurant tucked away in a corner. The aroma of spices wafted through the air, drawing me in. I sat down at a wooden table and ordered the Butter Chicken, a dish that was said to be a specialty of the region.

When the dish arrived, I was immediately struck by its vibrant colors and rich aroma. The chicken was tender and juicy, bathed in a creamy, buttery sauce that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a perfect balance of spices and creaminess.

I was so taken with the dish that I asked the chef if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my surprise, he smiled warmly and invited me into his kitchen. As we worked together to prepare the dish, he shared with me the secrets of Kashmiri cooking – the importance of fresh ingredients, the careful balance of spices, and the slow, patient simmering of the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together.

I watched as he roasted whole spices in a hot pan, releasing their fragrant oils. He then ground them into a fine powder, adding them to the creamy sauce along with a dollop of rich, homemade butter. The chicken was marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, tenderizing it and infusing it with flavor.

As the dish simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma, the chef shared with me the stories behind the ingredients – the saffron that was painstakingly hand-harvested from the fields of Pampore, the dried fruits that were sourced from the orchards of Kashmir, and the tender, succulent chicken that was raised in the mountains.

After several hours of simmering and stirring, the dish was finally ready. I eagerly spooned it onto a plate, taking in the vibrant colors and rich aroma. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to the bustling markets of Srinagar, the cool mountain air on my skin, and the warm hospitality of the chef who had shared his recipe with me.

Since that day, Kashmiri Butter Chicken has become a beloved dish in my own kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the traditions and flavors of Kashmiri cuisine. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that magical day in Srinagar, when I stumbled upon a recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

And so, as I sit here in my kitchen, preparing a steaming pot of Kashmiri Butter Chicken, I am filled with gratitude for the chef who shared his recipe with me and the region of Kashmir that inspired it. Each bite is a taste of that distant land, a memory of a magical journey that continues to live on in my heart and on my plate.