Making homemade chicken curry is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful and aromatic meal. Here's a simple and delicious recipe for chicken curry:
### Ingredients:
- **500 grams of chicken** (cut into pieces, bone-in or boneless) - **2 tablespoons oil** (vegetable or coconut oil) - **1 teaspoon mustard seeds** - **1 teaspoon cumin seeds** - **2 large onions** (finely chopped) - **2 tomatoes** (finely chopped) - **2 green chilies** (slit) - **1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste** - **1 teaspoon turmeric powder** - **1 teaspoon red chili powder** (adjust to taste) - **1 teaspoon coriander powder** - **1 teaspoon cumin powder** - **1 teaspoon garam masala** - **1 cup coconut milk** (optional for a richer curry) - **2 cups water** - **Salt to taste** - **Fresh coriander leaves** (for garnish) - **Juice of 1 lemon** (optional)
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** - Clean and cut the chicken into medium-sized pieces. - Marinate the chicken with a pinch of turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Set aside for 15-20 minutes. 2. **Prepare the Curry Base:** - Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. - Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter. - Add finely chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions are golden brown. - Add ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears. - Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture. 3. **Spice it Up:** - Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well. - Cook the spices for a few minutes until they are well incorporated. 4. **Add the Chicken:** - Add the marinated chicken pieces to the curry base. Cook on medium heat until the chicken is browned on all sides. 5. **Add Liquids:** - Add water and bring the mixture to a boil. - If using coconut milk, add it at this stage. It will make the curry richer and creamier. - Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. 6. **Finish and Serve:** - Add garam masala and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. - Check for seasoning and adjust salt if necessary. - Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
7. **Serve:**
- Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or any bread of your choice.
Enjoy your homemade chicken curry! If you have any specific preferences or dietary restrictions, let me know, and I can help you adjust the recipe accordingly.
