Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 500 grams chicken
- 3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- to taste Salt
For the Spice Paste
- 4-5 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1-inch piece cinnamon
- 4-5 cloves
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 1-inch piece ginger
- A small handful fresh coriander leaves
- (as needed) Water
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- (optional) Curry leaves
- for garnish Fresh coriander leaves
Directions
Flavor Profile
The dish is characterized by a robust blend of spices, which create a harmonious balance of heat and earthiness. The dried red chilies contribute spiciness, while the cumin and coriander seeds add a nutty flavor. The aromatic spices, combined with the richness of ghee, make for a succulent and flavorful dish. The tanginess from the yogurt and lemon juice in the marinade also adds a refreshing contrast to the overall richness.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken (or other meat): The primary ingredient, which absorbs the flavors of the marinade and spices, making it tender and juicy.
- Ghee: Essential for cooking, ghee not only adds richness but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It’s a healthier fat option compared to regular oil.
- Yogurt and Lemon Juice: These ingredients tenderize the meat and add a tangy flavor, which balances the spiciness of the dish.
- Spices:
- Dried Red Chilies: Provides heat; the variety used can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance.
- Cumin and Coriander Seeds: These spices add warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Black Peppercorns: Adds a sharp heat.
- Cinnamon and Cloves: Introduce a sweet, aromatic quality to the dish.
- Garlic and Ginger: Essential for depth and aroma.
- Fresh Coriander Leaves: Used in the spice paste and as a garnish, adding a fresh, herbal note.
- Onion: Sautéed until golden brown, it adds sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Curry Leaves: Optional, but they impart a unique flavor and aroma that complements the dish.
Cooking Technique
- Marination: Marinating the meat is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. The yogurt and lemon juice help break down the proteins, ensuring a juicy texture.
- Spice Roasting: Dry roasting the spices intensifies their flavors, making the spice paste more aromatic. It’s important to let the spices cool before blending to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Sautéing: Cooking the onions until golden brown adds a layer of sweetness and richness to the dish. This step is vital as it forms the base of the curry.
- Cooking the Chicken: The marinated chicken is cooked with the spice paste, allowing it to absorb all the flavors. Stirring occasionally ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Final Touches: Adding curry leaves towards the end infuses the dish with an aromatic freshness. Garnishing with coriander leaves provides a pop of color and enhances the visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Kudapure Ghee Roast is best served hot, alongside steamed rice, chapati, or naan. It pairs well with a simple cucumber salad or raita to balance the spiciness. This dish is perfect for gatherings and is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and aromatic spices.
Kudapure Ghee Roast is a celebration of flavors that showcases the culinary heritage of Karnataka. Its combination of spices, ghee, and marinated meat creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dining table!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 350-450 kcal
Protein: 25-30 grams
Fat: 25-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Cholesterol: 70-100 mg
- Sodium: 300-500 mg
Key Nutritional Components
- Protein: The chicken (or meat) is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fat: Ghee provides healthy fats, including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may have health benefits. However, it is high in saturated fat, so moderation is key.
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Iron: From the meat and spices, important for blood health.
- Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.
- Zinc: Supports immune function.
Health Considerations
- Moderation: While ghee adds flavor and richness, it’s calorie-dense. Consider portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake.
- Spice Level: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference, making it suitable for a range of palates.
- Balanced Meal: Pairing the dish with whole grains (like brown rice or whole wheat chapati) and vegetables can create a more balanced meal.
Steps
1 Done | Prepare the MarinadeIn a bowl, mix the ghee, yogurt, lemon juice, and salt. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight in the refrigerator). |
2 Done | Make the Spice Paste• Dry roast the dried red chilies, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, cinnamon, and cloves in a pan until fragrant. • Allow to cool, then blend with garlic, ginger, coriander leaves, and a little water to form a smooth paste. |
3 Done | Cook the Chicken• In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown. • Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. • Stir in the spice paste and mix well. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and well-coated with the spices. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent sticking. |
4 Done | Garnish and Serve• Add curry leaves if using, and cook for another minute. • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. • Serve hot with rice or chapati. |
5 Done | Tips• Adjust the number of dried red chilies based on your spice preference. • You can substitute chicken with lamb, shrimp, or vegetables for a different variation. Enjoy your flavorful Kudapure Chicken Ghee Roast! |