Dungar Chicken: Easy Smoky Flavor Recipe at Home

The smoky flavor of Dungar Chicken, a dish from the royal kitchens of Rajasthan, can easily be recreated at home with minimal ingredients and traditional techniques. This culinary delight, characterized by its unique smoky aroma, brings the essence of old-world charm to your dining table. Let's dive into how you can make this flavorful dish, capturing the smoke essence without the need for specialized equipment.

Ingredients Needed for Dungar Chicken

• 500g chicken pieces
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 3 tbsp oil or ghee
• 2-3 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 piece of charcoal
• 1 tsp ghee or butter for smoking
• 2-3 cloves for smoking
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves for garnish

Preparation Steps

Marinate the Chicken

1. Mix yogurt with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Add chicken pieces to this mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan, add the whole spices (cloves, cardamom, cinnamon), and let them crackle for flavor.
2. Place the marinated chicken in the pan, sauté on high heat for a couple of minutes to seal in the flavors.
3. Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook until the chicken is tender, stirring occasionally.

Infusing the Smoke

1. Heat the charcoal on direct flame until it’s red hot. This step is key to achieving the authentic smoky flavor.
2. Place the hot charcoal in a small bowl, add ghee or butter, and carefully place it into the middle of the cooked chicken.
3. Quickly cover with a lid to trap the smoke inside. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

🔥 Note: Ensure good ventilation when working with charcoal, and always handle it with care to avoid burns.

Final Touches

1. Remove the bowl with charcoal, discard it safely.
2. Stir in the slit green chilies, garnish with coriander leaves.

Tips for the Perfect Dungar Chicken

• Quality of Chicken: Use fresh, preferably organic chicken for the best taste.
• Marination: Longer marination time means more flavor; consider marinating for at least 6-8 hours.
• Smoking Technique: The smoke should not be overly intense; balance is key to avoid overwhelming the dish.

🍖 Note: If you don't have charcoal, an alternative is to use a piece of wood soaked in water, dried, and then set aflame.

Health Benefits of Eating Dungar Chicken

• Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Spices: The spices used like turmeric and chili provide antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and aid digestion.
• Yogurt: It’s not just a tenderizer but also adds probiotics beneficial for gut health.

🥗 Note: While it's rich in flavor, remember to balance your meal with vegetables or salad for a well-rounded diet.

In wrapping up this culinary journey, remember that the secret to Dungar Chicken lies in the marriage of rich spices and the unique smoking technique. By understanding and mastering these elements, you bring a piece of Rajasthan's royal history into your kitchen. From the marination to the smoking process, every step is an opportunity to elevate the dish, showcasing the beauty of traditional Indian cooking with an elegant simplicity. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a visual and aromatic feast to the table, truly embodying the soul of Indian cuisine.

What can I use if I don’t have charcoal?

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If charcoal is not available, you can use a piece of wood soaked in water, dried, and then set aflame to mimic the smoky flavor.

Is it safe to cook with charcoal inside?

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Yes, when handled correctly. Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated, and use caution with the hot charcoal to avoid any accidents. Always keep safety in mind, especially with fire.

Can I use a gas stove to heat the charcoal?

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You can use a gas stove, but it might not get as hot as direct flame. Use a flameproof container for safety, and consider using a pair of tongs to handle the charcoal.