Taste the richness of tradition: how to conjure a flavorful chicken korma with shan masala

Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as we unravel the secrets of creating an authentic and delectable Chicken Korma with the magic of Shan Masala. This rich and creamy dish, a staple of Indian cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its aromatic spices and tender chicken. Follow this comprehensive guide and learn the art of crafting this flavorful masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon Shan Tikka Masala Mix
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Korma Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon Shan Korma Masala Mix
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the Shan Tikka Masala Mix, lemon juice, yogurt, and salt.
• Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same skillet, heat the vegetable oil.
• Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.

4. Add the Spices

• Stir in the Shan Korma Masala Mix, cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
• Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the flavors.

5. Create the Sauce

• Add the coconut milk and heavy cream to the skillet.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Return the Chicken

• Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened further.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Stir in the chopped cilantro.
• Serve the Chicken Korma hot with rice, naan, or paratha.

Tips for Success

• To enhance the flavor, use a combination of fresh and ground spices.
• For a richer sauce, use full-fat coconut milk and heavy cream.
• If you don’t have Shan Korma Masala Mix, you can create your own blend with ground coriander, cumin, fenugreek, and turmeric.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less Shan Korma Masala Mix.
• Serve the Chicken Korma with a side of raita to balance the richness.

Variations

• Vegetable Korma: Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower.
• Prawn Korma: Use prawns instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Spinach Korma: Add a cup of chopped spinach to the sauce for a vibrant green color and extra nutrients.

Health Benefits of Chicken Korma

• Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Spices like turmeric and coriander contain antioxidants that protect against cellular damage.
• Good Source of Fiber: Vegetables, such as spinach, provide dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
• May Reduce Inflammation: Spices like turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties, which may benefit overall health.

Conclusion: An Aromatic Delight

Mastering the art of Chicken Korma with Shan Masala is a culinary triumph that will impress your taste buds and bring joy to your table. With the right ingredients, a touch of patience, and the magic of Shan Masala, you can create an authentic and flavorful dish that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving more.

FAQ

Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs are a good substitute for chicken breasts. They have a richer flavor and will remain moist during cooking.

Q2. How can I store leftover Chicken Korma?

• Leftover Chicken Korma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Q3. What is a good side dish to serve with Chicken Korma?

• Rice, naan, or paratha are all excellent side dishes to complement the creamy sauce of Chicken Korma.