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HOMESTYLE CHICKEN CURRY

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Meena, www.hookedonheat.com

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp light cooking oil
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 whole black cardamom pods
  • 1 star anise
  • 3-4 whole cloves
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger paste
  • 1 tbsp garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala powder
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 medium tomatoes finely chopped
  • salt to taste
  • 10-12 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt beaten till smooth
  • water as needed
  • a handful fresh coriander leaves chopped for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan and add in whole spices and cumin seeds. As soon as they begin to sizzle, add in chopped onions, and fry for 3-5 minutes on medium heat till onions turn pink and tender. Add in ginger and garlic pastes and sauté for another minute or two till fragrant.
  • Add in spices and tomato paste, and fry for a couple of minutes to blend well. If it starts to dry out and stick to the bottom of the pan, add in a splash of water.
  • Mix in chopped tomatoes and salt, and cook for a few minutes till the tomatoes pulp and starts to release oil around the sides of the pan. Add in the chicken, mix well and cook covered on low heat for 3-4 minutes.
  • Once the chicken starts to give out its own moisture, slowly stir in beaten yogurt forming a smooth gravy base. Feel free to add in more water depending on the consistency you prefer. Cook covered for 10-12 minutes on medium-low heat till chicken is completely cooked through. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves and serve piping hot with a side of rotis or rice, and a salad.