Chicken Karahi is a tantalizing dish that hails from the culinary heart of Pakistan and Northern India. Its name derives from the vessel in which it’s traditionally cooked – the ‘karahi,’ a deep, circular cooking pot similar to a wok. This iconic dish features succulent chicken pieces simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based gravy, infused with a medley of spices that awaken the taste buds with every bite.
To prepare Chicken Karahi, the first step involves marinating the chicken pieces in a blend of yogurt, garlic, ginger, and an array of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. This marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also imparts a depth of flavour that infuses the entire dish.
Next, the marinated chicken is cooked in a hot karahi or a large skillet with ghee or oil until it’s golden brown and slightly caramelized. Then, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and additional spices are added to the karahi, creating a fragrant base for the dish. The tomatoes break down forming a luscious gravy, while the green chilies provide a subtle heat that balances the flavours.
As the Chicken Karahi simmers, the spices meld together, creating a symphony of taste and aroma that fills the kitchen. The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice. These two simple ingredients add a burst of freshness and acidity to the rich flavours.
Chicken Karahi is typically served piping hot, straight from the karahi, alongside fluffy naan bread or steamed rice. Its vibrant colours and bold flavours make it a centrepiece of any dining table. It’s a perfect dish for sharing with family and friends.
Whether enjoyed at a bustling street-side eatery or lovingly prepared at home, Chicken Karahi is a culinary masterpiece. It encapsulates the essence of Pakistani and Northern Indian cuisine – bold, aromatic, and utterly irresistible.
Chicken Karahi
Chicken Karahi is a flavourful main dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices, perfect for a satisfying and memorable meal.
Print
Facebook
Pinterest
Twitter
Add to CollectionServings: 6 People
Calories: 247kcal
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken cut into pieces
- 120 ml yogurt plain
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 inch ginger grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 4 large tomatoes chopped
- 2 large green chilies slit lengthwise
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder adjust to taste
- salt to taste
- cilantro coriander/chopped
- 1 large lemon wedged
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.120 ml yogurt, 4 cloves garlic, 1 inch ginger, 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, salt
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavour.1 kg chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large karahi or skillet over medium-high heat.2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the karahi and set aside.
- In the same karahi, add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.2 medium onions
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a thick gravy, about 8-10 minutes.4 large tomatoes
- Return the cooked chicken to the karahi and stir well to combine with the gravy.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the karahi. Let the chicken simmer in the gravy for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, garnish with chopped cilantro and green chilies.2 large green chilies, cilantro
- Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice, and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken before eating.1 large lemon
Nutrition
Calories: 247kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 133mg | Potassium: 596mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1231IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 2mg
