Secret ingredient revealed: unlocking the flavor of low-calorie chicken korma
What To Know
- Remove the korma from the heat and stir in the cilantro leaves for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Add an extra pinch of chili powder or use green chili peppers for a fiery kick.
- Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or cashew cream for a richer texture.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of a traditional Indian delicacy without sacrificing your health goals. This low-calorie chicken korma recipe offers a guilt-free culinary experience that will delight your taste buds while nourishing your body.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Healthy Flavors
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk
- 1/2 cup low-fat yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Culinary Delight
1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices: Sprinkle the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder over the onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to coat with the spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Simmer in Coconut Milk: Pour the coconut milk into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Whisk in Yogurt: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and lemon juice. Gradually add the yogurt mixture to the simmering korma, stirring constantly.
6. Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the chili powder as needed for your desired level of spiciness.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the korma from the heat and stir in the cilantro leaves for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite sides.
Nutritional Value: A Health-Conscious Delicacy
This low-calorie chicken korma recipe provides a balanced meal packed with nutrients. One serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
Health Benefits: A Culinary Odyssey for Well-being
Beyond its delectable taste, this chicken korma recipe offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Low in Calories and Fat: This recipe uses low-fat yogurt and coconut milk, reducing the overall calorie and fat content.
- High in Fiber: The onion and yogurt provide dietary fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Turmeric and ginger possess antioxidant properties that help protect against cellular damage.
- Heart-Healthy: Coconut milk contains lauric acid, a fatty acid linked to improved heart health.
Variations: A Culinary Canvas for Creativity
Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your unique chicken korma:
- Vegan Korma: Replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
- Spicy Korma: Add an extra pinch of chili powder or use green chili peppers for a fiery kick.
- Creamy Korma: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or cashew cream for a richer texture.
- Vegetable Korma: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Korma with a Twist: Experiment with different spices such as garam masala, cinnamon, or cardamom to create a unique flavor profile.
Tips for Perfect Korma: A Culinary Guide
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and ginger will enhance the flavor of your korma.
- Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the spices before cooking intensifies the flavors.
- Simmer Slowly: Simmering the korma on low heat allows the flavors to develop and blend harmoniously.
- Adjust the Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve Immediately: Korma is best enjoyed fresh out of the pot, as the flavors will continue to meld as it sits.
Beyond the Blog: A Culinary Journey of Discovery
- [Explore Indian Cuisine: A Culinary Adventure](https://www.indianhealthyrecipes.com/)
- [Low-Calorie Indian Recipes for Weight Loss](https://www.tarladalal.com/low-calorie-indian-recipes-2390i)
- [Healthy Chicken Korma: A Guilt-Free Indulgence](https://www.archanaskitchen.com/healthy-chicken-korma-recipe)
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Q: What can I serve with chicken korma?
A: Chicken korma pairs well with basmati rice, naan bread, roti, or your favorite Indian sides.
Q: How long can I store leftover korma?
A: Leftover korma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
A: Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt and coconut milk to make a dairy-free version of this recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.