Authentic Afghani Chicken Recipe
Introduction:
Embark on a culinary adventure with this delightful Afghani chicken recipe, inspired by the rich and vibrant flavors of Afghanistan. Bursting with aromatic spices and succulent chicken, this dish is a perfect blend of tradition and taste. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving an exotic meal, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of Afghanistan. Get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
To create this tantalizing Afghani chicken, gather the following ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger paste
- 2 tablespoons garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
For the Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
Marinade Preparation:
a. In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, red chili powder, and salt.
b. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
c. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated.
d. Cover the bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.
Cooking the Afghani Chicken:
a. In a large, deep pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
b. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
c. Stir in the tomatoes and green chilies, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
d. Now, add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground paprika, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for a minute to release the aromas.
e. Place the marinated chicken pieces into the pan, reserving the excess marinade.
f. Stir-fry the chicken on medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes or until it turns golden brown, ensuring all sides are cooked evenly.
g. Pour in the reserved marinade and chicken stock, ensuring all the chicken pieces are submerged.
h. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
i. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high to thicken the gravy to your desired consistency.
j. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving:
a. Transfer the prepared Afghani chicken to a serving dish.
b. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a vibrant touch.
Nutritional Facts:
Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a standard portion):
Calories: 350-400
Protein: 30-35g
Fat: 18-20g
Carbohydrates: 15-20g
Fiber: 2-3g
Cholesterol: 80-90 mg
Sodium: 600-700mg
Potassium: 600-700mg
Please note that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Afghanistan with this Afghani chicken recipe. The tender chicken, marinated in a luscious blend of spices and yogurt, results in a dish that is both aromatic and comforting. The rich and flavorful gravy, infused with traditional Afghani spices, perfectly complements the succulent chicken. Serve this delightful dish with fragrant basmati rice, naan bread, or a side of salad for a complete meal. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the authentic tastes of Afghanistan right in the comfort of your own home.
