Chicken Kuzhambu, also known as Kozhi Kuzhambu or Chicken Curry, is a beloved dish in Tamil cuisine that has been passed down through generations. This flavorful curry is a staple in many households and is often served as a main course, accompanied by steamed rice or Indian breads like idli, dosa, or parotta.
The key to this dish’s incredible taste lies in the careful blend of spices and the slow simmering process, which allows the flavors to meld together perfectly. The aroma of freshly ground spices, combined with the tanginess of tomatoes and the richness of coconut, creates a truly irresistible and comforting dish.
Making Chicken Kuzhambu at home is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. The process of grinding the masala paste and allowing the chicken to simmer in the aromatic gravy is not only therapeutic but also a way to connect with the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newcomer to South Indian cuisine, this Chicken Kuzhambu recipe is sure to impress. Serve it as a centerpiece for a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight meal – either way, it’s guaranteed to transport you to the vibrant streets of Tamil Nadu with every bite.
Chicken Kuzhambu Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb 450g chicken, cut into pieces (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
For the Masala Paste:
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1- inch ginger peeled
- 2 tomatoes chopped
- 2 green chilies adjust to taste
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 2 dry red chilies
- 1/4 cup fresh grated coconut or 2 tbsp coconut powder
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder adjust to taste
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt and 1⁄4 tsp turmeric powder. Mix well and set aside for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Masala Paste
- In a blender or food processor, combine the onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, green chilies, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, dry red chilies, and grated coconut. Grind into a smooth paste, adding a splash of water if needed.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them crackle.
- Add the curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add the ground masala paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix well.
- Add 1 cup of water (or as needed) and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or any Indian bread of your choice.
Tips and Information
- For a richer gravy, you can add 1⁄4 cup of thick coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
- For a thicker gravy, you can mash a few pieces of cooked chicken with a spoon or potato masher.
Making this dish at home not only allows you to control the level of spice and seasoning to suit your preferences but also gives you a sense of accomplishment and connection to the vibrant culinary traditions of Pakistan. The aroma of whole spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is sure to transport you to the bustling streets of Lahore, where these flavors are celebrated and cherished.
Whether you’re serving this Lahori Chicken Karahi as a main course with naan or roti, or as a part of a larger feast, it’s sure to impress and delight your family and friends. The perfect balance of tanginess from the yogurt, the richness of the gravy, and the warmth of the spices create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
So, enjoy the flavors of Lahore and add this Lahori Chicken Karahi recipe to your repertoire. It’s a dish that celebrates the power of simple ingredients and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Enjoy!
