How to make chicken curry

Chicken curry is a delicious and popular dish with various regional variations. Below is a basic recipe for making a flavorful chicken curry:

Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken pieces (bone-in for better flavor)
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated or minced
• 2-3 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• 2-3 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon garam masala (a blend of Indian spices)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large, deep pan or pot, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
3. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
6. Lower the heat and add the turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the spices for a minute or two to release their flavors.
7. Now, add the chicken pieces to the pot and coat them evenly with the spice mixture. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Pour in the plain yogurt and mix it with the chicken and spices. The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and adds creaminess to the curry.
9. Cover the pot and let the chicken cook over medium-low heat until it is fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
10. Once the chicken is cooked through, check the seasoning and adjust salt and spices if needed.
11. Sprinkle garam masala over the curry and give it a final stir. The garam masala will add a burst of aromatic flavor to the dish.
12. Garnish the chicken curry with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Chicken curry is best enjoyed with steamed rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with some cucumber raita or a side of vegetable salad to balance the flavors. Feel free to modify the spices and ingredients according to your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Enjoy your homemade chicken curry!