Chicken Shahi Korma is a dish that was first made in the kitchens of the Mughal emperors. This fancy curry has tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy sauce. The sauce is made with fragrant spices and ground nuts. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.
What makes Shahi Korma special is its subtle mix of flavors and its smooth, velvety texture. The nuts and cream make a sauce that’s rich but not too heavy. The mix of whole and ground spices adds depth and complexity to every bite. If you choose to add golden raisins, they give little bursts of sweetness that go beautifully with the savory flavors.
Making Chicken Shahi Korma at home lets you control how spicy and rich it is, so you can make it just how you like it. It might seem like a complicated dish, but it’s actually pretty straightforward to make. The end result is definitely worth the effort. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to Indian food, this recipe will help you make a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to go on a tasty journey that will take you back to the fancy courts of the Mughal Empire. Let’s create a Chicken Shahi Korma that’s truly fit for a king!
Chicken Shahi Korma Recipe
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 kg 2.2 lbs boneless chicken, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
For the Korma Sauce:
- 1/4 cup ghee or oil
- 2 large onions finely sliced
- 1/4 cup cashews
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 2 black cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup yogurt whisked
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp golden raisins optional
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and turmeric.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Nut Paste
- Soak cashews, almonds, and poppy seeds in warm water for 30 minutes.
- Drain and grind into a smooth paste. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Korma
- Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, bay leaf) and fry until fragrant.
- Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the nut paste and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add whisked yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Stir in the heavy cream and garam masala. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Add golden raisins if using, and adjust salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
Tips and Information
- For a richer flavor, use a mixture of cashews and almonds for the nut paste.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables.
What makes this dish extra special is not just how good it tastes, but also how it brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it with family on a special occasion or impressing guests at a dinner party, Chicken Shahi Korma has a way of creating a feeling of warmth and connection around the table.
Making this korma in your own kitchen lets you experience the rich food traditions of Mughlai cuisine. It’s a great example of the fancy flavors that have developed over hundreds of years in the royal kitchens of India. By making this dish, you’re not just cooking a meal; you’re taking part in a long-standing food tradition.
So the next time you want a meal that’s both comforting and luxurious, try this Chicken Shahi Korma. It’s a yummy way to explore the diverse world of Indian food and add a touch of royalty to your everyday cooking. Remember, cooking is an adventure, and each time you make this dish, you’re creating not just food, but memories.
Gather your ingredients, get the stove ready, and let the inviting smells of Chicken Shahi Korma fill your kitchen. Happy cooking, and enjoy your tasty journey through the flavors of Mughlai cuisine!