North Indian Chicken Curry Valerie's Keepers from www.valerieskeepers.com
Introduction
Indian curries are the perfect blend of spices, herbs, and vegetables or meat. They are known for their rich and aromatic flavors, and the variety of curries available in Indian cuisine is unmatched. From butter chicken to vegetable korma, Indian curries offer something for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, chopped - 4 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated or minced - 2-3 green chilies, chopped (optional) - 2-3 tomatoes, chopped - 1 tsp cumin seeds - 1 tsp coriander seeds - 1 tsp turmeric powder - 1 tsp red chili powder - 1 tsp garam masala powder - Salt to taste - 2-3 tbsp oil - 1 cup water - Vegetables or meat of your choice (e.g. potatoes, cauliflower, chicken, lamb, etc.)
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Wait for them to crackle. 2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies (if using). Saute till onions turn golden brown. 3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook till they turn mushy. 4. Add coriander seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let it cook for a minute. 5. Add the vegetables or meat of your choice and mix well. 6. Add water and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the vegetables or meat are cooked. 7. Add garam masala powder and mix well. Turn off the heat. 8. Serve hot with rice or naan.
Nutrition
Indian curries can be nutritious if you choose the right ingredients. Vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, and peas are packed with vitamins and minerals. Chicken and lamb are good sources of protein. However, some curries can be high in fat and calories due to the use of cream or ghee. To make your curries healthier, use low-fat dairy products, lean meat, and limit the amount of oil and salt.
Types of Indian Curries
There are hundreds of types of Indian curries, each with its own unique flavor and cooking method. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is a creamy and rich curry made with boneless chicken, tomato puree, cream, and butter. It is a favorite among non-vegetarians and is often served with naan or rice.
Palak Paneer
Palak paneer is a vegetarian curry made with spinach and cottage cheese. The spinach is pureed and cooked with spices, and the paneer is added towards the end. It is a healthy and delicious curry that is often served with roti or paratha.
Chana Masala
Chana masala is a vegetarian curry made with chickpeas, tomato, and spices. It is a popular street food in India and is often served with naan or bhatura.
Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a Kashmiri lamb curry made with yogurt, tomato, and spices. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is often served with rice or naan.
Tips for Making Indian Curries
Making Indian curries can be intimidating for beginners, but with a few tips, anyone can make a delicious curry at home: - Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients like ginger, garlic, and spices will enhance the flavor of your curry. - Toast your spices: To bring out the flavor of your spices, toast them in a dry pan before adding them to your curry. - Cook your onions well: Onions are the base of most Indian curries, so make sure to cook them till they turn golden brown. - Use the right amount of water: The amount of water you use will depend on the vegetables or meat you are using. Start with a cup of water and add more if needed. - Let it simmer: Indian curries taste better when they are cooked slowly on low heat, so be patient and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes.
Conclusion
Indian curries are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy vegetables and meat. With a few basic ingredients and some spices, you can create a flavorful and aromatic curry at home. Experiment with different vegetables and meat to find your favorite curry.