Welcome to TastyBitesSS.com! Today, we’re diving into the world of royal Indian cuisine with a recipe that’s as regal as its name—Chicken Shahi Korma. Known for its rich, creamy, and aromatic flavours, this dish has graced the tables of Mughal emperors and continues to be a favourite in Indian households. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this luxurious dish that will leave your family and guests craving more!
What is Shahi Korma?
“Shahi” translates to “royal,” and “Korma” refers to a slow-cooked curry. Chicken Shahi Korma is a decadent dish made with succulent chicken, a blend of spices, and a creamy base of yoghurt, nuts, and cream. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Ingredients for Chicken Shahi Korma
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavourful dish:
For the Marinade:
- 500 g chicken (bone-in or boneless, as per preference)
- ½ cup plain yoghurt
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- Salt to taste
For the Korma Gravy:
- 2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ¼ cup cashew nuts
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp almond paste (soak almonds and blend into a smooth paste)
- 1 tsp kewra water (optional, for aroma)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix the yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
2. Prepare the Cashew Paste:
- Soak the cashew nuts in warm water for 15 minutes.
- Blend them into a smooth paste and set aside.
3. Fry the Onions:
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Once cool, blend half of the fried onions into a paste. Reserve the rest for garnish.
4. Cook the Korma:
- In the same pan, add more ghee if needed.
- Temper with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the onion paste and stir well.
- Mix in the coriander powder and garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook on medium heat until the chicken starts to release its juices.
- Stir in the cashew paste, almond paste, and poppy seeds (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Final Touch:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Add kewra water for an aromatic finish (optional).
- Simmer the korma for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and the gravy is thick and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Shahi Korma pairs beautifully with:
- Naan or Paratha: The soft bread complements the creamy curry.
- Basmati Rice: A fragrant rice dish to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Pulao: Add a touch of festivity with saffron-flavoured rice.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Shahi Korma
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavour.
- Cook Slowly: Allow the chicken and spices to simmer gently for a rich taste.
- Customise Spice Level: Adjust the chilli powder according to your preference.
- Balance the Creaminess: If the dish feels too rich, add a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavours: A true taste of Mughlai cuisine.
- Easy to Prepare: With a bit of preparation, this dish is surprisingly simple to cook.
- Impressive Presentation: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or festive occasions.
FAQs about Chicken Shahi Korma
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with paneer, mushrooms, or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian Shahi Korma.
2. How long can I store Chicken Shahi Korma?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
3. Can I skip the nuts?
The nuts are key to the dish’s creamy texture, but you can use alternatives like sunflower seeds or cream for a nut-free version.
Closing Thoughts
Chicken Shahi Korma is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. With its rich heritage and exquisite flavours, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. We hope this recipe brings a touch of royalty to your dining table.
Don’t forget to share your creations with us on Instagram by tagging @tastybitesss. We’d love to see your version of this royal delicacy!
Happy Cooking, Foodies!
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