5 Quick & Easy Vahchef Recipes You'll Love

Are you looking to explore the flavors of Indian cuisine right from your own kitchen? Vahchef, a name synonymous with culinary innovation in India, offers an array of recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also burst with flavors. In this post, we'll delve into five of the best Vahchef recipes that you can quickly whip up, no matter your skill level in the kitchen.

1. Vahchef's Classic Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is a dish that brings joy to many dinner tables, especially during festive occasions or family gatherings. Here's how you can make Vahchef's version, which is simple yet authentic:

• Ingredients: Chicken, Basmati Rice, Onion, Tomato, Green Chilies, Mint, Coriander, Yogurt, Ginger Garlic Paste, Biryani Masala, Turmeric, Salt, Ghee.
• Steps:
  1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger garlic paste, and biryani masala for at least an hour.
  2. Parboil the rice until it's half-cooked and set aside.
  3. In a pot, fry sliced onions until golden brown, then add tomatoes and chillies to cook until soft.
  4. Add marinated chicken to the pot, cook until half done, then layer with rice.
  5. Add mint leaves, coriander, ghee, and some water before sealing and cooking on low heat for 45 minutes.
  6. Once done, allow it to rest for 10 minutes before opening and fluffing the rice.

🍛 Note: For an authentic touch, you might want to consider cooking the biryani in a clay pot (degchi) for that unique earthy flavor.

2. Easy Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori chicken is known for its smoky flavor and vibrant red color. Here’s Vahchef’s straightforward method to bring this classic to your kitchen:

• Ingredients: Chicken drumsticks, Yogurt, Lemon Juice, Red Chili Powder, Turmeric, Garam Masala, Tandoori Masala, Salt, Oil.
• Steps:
  1. Make cuts in the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate.
  2. Mix all ingredients except oil and marinate chicken for 6-8 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken on a lined baking tray.
  4. Drizzle with oil and bake for 25 minutes, flipping once halfway.
  5. Broil for the last 5 minutes to get that charred look.

3. Vahchef's Vegetarian Delight - Aloo Gobhi

This cauliflower and potato curry is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a vegetarian dish with robust flavors:

• Ingredients: Potatoes, Cauliflower, Cumin Seeds, Onion, Ginger Garlic Paste, Tomatoes, Coriander Powder, Turmeric, Red Chili Powder, Garam Masala, Salt, Oil.
• Steps:
  1. Heat oil, add cumin seeds, followed by chopped onions and ginger garlic paste.
  2. Add tomatoes, cook until oil separates, then add spices and cook further.
  3. Add potatoes and cauliflower, mix, cover, and cook until tender.
  4. Adjust seasoning and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

4. Quick & Delicious Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken or Murgh Makhani is an indulgent dish that's beloved worldwide. Here’s how you can make it at home:

• Ingredients: Chicken (boneless or bone-in), Yogurt, Butter, Cream, Onion, Ginger Garlic Paste, Tomato Puree, Cashew Paste, Garam Masala, Red Chili Powder, Turmeric, Kasoori Methi (dried fenugreek leaves), Honey or Sugar.
• Steps:
  1. Marinate chicken in yogurt and ginger garlic paste. Heat some butter in a pan, and sear the chicken until it's nearly cooked.
  2. In another pan, cook onions until translucent, add ginger garlic paste, then tomato puree.
  3. Add cashew paste, all spices, and cook until the oil separates. Stir in cream, kasoori methi, and honey.
  4. Add seared chicken, simmer for 10 minutes, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

5. Simplest Rasmalai

Rasmalai, a sweet, milky dessert, might seem complicated, but Vahchef's method is remarkably simple:

• Ingredients: Paneer, Milk Powder, Milk, Sugar, Cardamom, Almonds, Saffron.
• Steps:
  1. Mash paneer with milk powder to form a dough. Make small, flat discs from the dough.
  2. Boil milk with sugar, add cardamom and saffron. Simmer on low.
  3. Add paneer discs to the simmering milk. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning them once.
  4. Chill thoroughly before serving, garnished with almonds.

☃️ Note: If you prefer a lighter dessert, you can use skim milk and reduce the amount of sugar.

The beauty of these Vahchef recipes lies in their simplicity without compromising on taste. Whether you're looking to impress guests, cook for your family, or indulge in some comfort food, these dishes are sure to become favorites in your culinary repertoire. They encapsulate the essence of Indian cuisine—spices, love, and simplicity. Try these recipes, experiment with flavors, and let your kitchen become a place where traditions and flavors meet.

How can I make Vahchef recipes spicier or milder?

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To adjust the spice level in Vahchef’s recipes, simply increase or decrease the amount of chili powder or green chilies. For milder flavors, reduce the spices or opt for less spicy alternatives like Kashmiri red chili powder.

Can I use store-bought ginger-garlic paste?

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Yes, you can certainly use store-bought ginger-garlic paste. However, for fresher flavors, many chefs suggest making it at home. It’s easy: just blend equal parts of peeled ginger and garlic with a little water to make a smooth paste.

Are there vegetarian options for meat-based Vahchef recipes?

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Yes! For instance, Chicken Biryani can be made with Paneer, vegetables, or even Soya Chunks. Just substitute the meat with your chosen vegetarian protein or veggies and adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long can I store dishes like butter chicken in the fridge?

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Butter Chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. For best results, reheat gently without boiling to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Vahchef’s desserts like Rasmalai?

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Yes, Rasmalai can be frozen. Freeze the paneer discs without the milk syrup. When you want to serve it, thaw the paneer and soak in freshly made milk syrup.