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Why Choose Palak Chicken?
- Nutrient Powerhouse:
- Packed with the goodness of spinach, offering a range of vitamins and minerals.
- Flavor Fusion:
- A blend of aromatic spices and earthy spinach creates a bold yet comforting flavor profile.
- Visual Appeal:
- The vibrant green hue makes it visually enticing, and appealing to the senses.
- Versatile Delight:
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to gourmet delights.
Ingredients
- 700 grams chicken, bone on
- 400 grams spinach, chopped well
- 6-8 tbsp ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely sliced
- 2 tbsp freshly minced garlic
- 1 tbsp freshly minced ginger
- Cooking oil
- 1 black cardamom
- 3 green cardamom pods
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 inch long piece cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 0.5 tsp red chili powder, or to taste
- 0.5 tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
- 2 tsp butter
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken in salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and 4 tbsp dahi for 30 minutes. Set aside while you prepare the remaining curry ingredients.
- Blanch spinach leaves and blend into a smooth puree, creating the vibrant green base for the Palak Chicken.
- In a pot, heat the ghee, and once hot, add the onions, garlic and ginger and fry till brown
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger garlic paste for another two minutes, or until the onions are lightly golden brown. Add the tomatoes (finely chopped) and cook for about three minutes, or until the tomatoes are mushy. Introduce, cumin, coriander, and salt.
- Add marinated chicken to the aromatic base. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through, after adding a quarter cup of water. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the green spinach paste. Allow the gravy to simmer for about two minutes on low heat after adding half a teaspoon of garam masala powder
- Add a touch of cream for a creamy texture that elevates the dish.
Tips
- Use fresh spinach and quality chicken for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for an extended period, ideally overnight. This ensures the flavors penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- When blanching spinach, use boiling water for a quick dip. Immediately transfer to ice water to retain the vibrant green color and nutritional value.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you prefer it spicier, add more green chilies or a dash of red chili powder.
- Achieve the desired creamy consistency by controlling the amount of cream added. For a lighter version, use yogurt instead.
Variation
1. Paneer Palak:
- Substitute chicken with paneer (cottage cheese) for a vegetarian version. Follow the same cooking steps, adjusting the marination time for the paneer.
2. Palak Chicken Curry:
- Transform the dish into a curry by adding more liquid (broth or water). This variation is perfect for pairing with rice.
3. Mughlai Palak Chicken:
- Elevate the dish with Mughlai influences by adding ground nuts, khoya (reduced milk), and a pinch of saffron for richness.
5. Grilled Palak Chicken:
- Grill marinated chicken before incorporating it into the spinach base for a smoky flavor and a different texture.
FAQs
1. What makes Palak Chicken unique?
Palak Chicken stands out due to its perfect blend of aromatic spices, the earthiness of spinach, and the succulence of chicken. The dish not only delights the taste buds but also offers a visually appealing vibrant green color.2. Can I make Palak Chicken in advance?
Yes, Palak Chicken can be made in advance. The flavors often intensify when reheated, making it a convenient dish for meal prep or entertaining guests.3. Is Palak Chicken a spicy dish?
The spiciness of Palak Chicken can be adjusted based on personal preference. By controlling the amount of green chilies or adding red chili powder, you can tailor the spice level to suit your taste.4. What can I serve with Palak Chicken?
Palak Chicken pairs well with various accompaniments. It is commonly served with naan, roti, or steamed rice. The neutral base of these sides complements the bold flavors of the dish.5. Can I make Palak Chicken vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Palak Chicken by substituting chicken with paneer (cottage cheese). Follow the same cooking steps, adjusting the marination time for the paneer.6. How can I make Palak Chicken healthier?
To make Palak Chicken healthier, consider using lean cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of cream, and opting for yogurt instead. Additionally, you can add extra vegetables to enhance the nutritional content.
Conclusion:
Palak Chicken is a delightful combination of health and taste. Follow these simple steps to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.Also, read:
- Fish fry recipe (step-by-step)
- Aloo fry recipe
- Cauliflower Fried Rice
- Fish Cutlet Recipe
- Bharwa Baingan Recipe
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