Receipe For Butter Chicken

Introduction to Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, known as Murgh Makhani in Hindi, is a dish that epitomizes the rich, indulgent flavors of Indian cuisine. Originating from the heart of Northern India, this dish has now become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its creamy texture and the depth of its spices. The history of Butter Chicken is shrouded in legend, with stories attributing its creation to the kitchens of Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi. It's said that a resourceful chef, Kundan Lal Jaggi, created this dish as a way to serve leftover tandoori chicken in a new, scrumptious avatar, thereby giving birth to one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken (preferably bone-in)
• Marination Ingredients:
  • 200g thick yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• For the Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons oil (preferably vegetable or mustard oil)
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 cup heavy cream or cashew cream for richness
  • 1 cup water or chicken stock
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. Mix yogurt with ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice to make a thick marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
3. Pre-heat your oven to 200°C (400°F), grill or roast the chicken until it’s cooked and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can cook it in a pan with some oil.

Preparing the Sauce

1. In a large pan, melt butter with oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions until they turn golden.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste, cook until the raw smell disappears.
3. Add tomato puree, red chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
4. Pour in the cream, mix well, and let it simmer. Add water or stock to adjust consistency.
5. Crush and sprinkle kasuri methi into the sauce for an authentic aroma.
6. Introduce the cooked chicken into the sauce. Simmer until the chicken absorbs the flavors and the sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with Naan, Roti, or Jeera Rice.
• Garnish with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of dried fenugreek leaves.
• Add a side of Raita to balance the rich flavors.

🔍 Note: For a healthier version, you can reduce the cream content or replace it with cashew cream, which is made by blending soaked cashews with water until smooth.

Variations of Butter Chicken

While the classic Butter Chicken is a staple, there are numerous ways to tweak the recipe for different palates:

• Makhani Chicken: For a sweeter touch, add a bit of sugar or honey to the sauce.
• Coconut Butter Chicken: Substitute some or all of the cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Vegan Butter Chicken: Replace chicken with tofu or paneer, and use a vegan alternative for cream.
• Spicy Butter Chicken: Increase the chili content for those who prefer more heat.

🔍 Note: Experimentation with ingredients can personalize the dish to your taste, making each Butter Chicken meal a unique experience.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Despite its indulgent nature, Butter Chicken does offer some health benefits:

• Protein from chicken helps in muscle repair and growth.
• Tomatoes provide lycopene, beneficial for heart health.
• Spices like turmeric and garam masala have anti-inflammatory properties.

However, moderation is key due to:

• High calorie content from butter and cream.
• Possible high sodium levels if salt is not monitored.

Cultural Significance

Butter Chicken is more than just food; it's a cultural icon in India. It represents the culinary innovation, blending of regional flavors, and the richness of North Indian cuisine. It's often served at celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and indulgence. Its international popularity has made Indian cuisine more accessible and has helped to redefine curry for many across the globe.

In summary, Butter Chicken is a culinary delight that carries with it a rich history, a blend of flavors, and health benefits in moderation. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, mastering this dish is a joyful journey into the heart of Indian cuisine. Its versatility allows for countless adaptations, ensuring that every meal can be a new adventure. Enjoying Butter Chicken isn’t just about savoring the taste; it’s about experiencing a piece of Indian heritage, right at your dining table.

What is the difference between Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala?

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Butter Chicken is usually sweeter and creamier, made with a buttery tomato-based sauce. Chicken Tikka Masala, on the other hand, often has a spicier and tangier profile due to its use of tomatoes, spices, and less cream.

Can I make Butter Chicken without cream?

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Yes, you can replace cream with cashew cream, yogurt, or even evaporated milk for a lighter version of Butter Chicken.

Is Butter Chicken gluten-free?

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If made with gluten-free ingredients, Butter Chicken can be gluten-free. Ensure that any spice blends used are gluten-free, and if you’re using store-bought curry pastes, check the labels.