Mughlai cuisine is known for its rich and indulgent flavors, and 'Chicken Akbari' is no exception. This classic dish, fit for royalty, combines succulent chicken with a creamy, aromatic gravy that will transport your taste buds to the heart of India's culinary heritage.
Ingredients You'll NeedTo recreate the magic of Chicken Akbari at home, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the Marination: 500 grams of boneless chicken pieces 1 cup of thick yogurt 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste 1 teaspoon of red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder Salt to taste For the Gravy: 2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter) 2 large onions, finely chopped 2 tomatoes, pureed 1/2 cup of cashew nuts, soaked in warm water 1/2 cup of fresh cream 1 tablespoon of melon seeds 1 teaspoon of garam masala 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon of saffron strands (soaked in warm milk) Fresh coriander leaves for garnish Step-by-Step Cooking InstructionsNow, let's dive into the culinary journey of preparing Chicken Akbari:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a mixing bowl, combine the boneless chicken pieces, thick yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better, as it allows the flavors to infuse. Step 2: Prepare the Cashew Paste Grind the soaked cashew nuts and melon seeds into a smooth paste using a blender. Add a little water if needed. Step 3: Cooking the Chicken Heat ghee in a pan and add the marinated chicken. Cook until it turns golden brown and tender. Set it aside. Step 4: Prepare the Gravy In the same pan, add more ghee if needed. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly brown. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture. Add the cashew-melon seed paste and cook for a few more minutes. Step 5: Add Cream and Spices Pour in the fresh cream, cardamom powder, and garam masala. Mix well. Now, add the saffron strands soaked in warm milk. This gives the dish its rich and vibrant color. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Step 6: Combine the Chicken and Gravy Add the cooked chicken pieces to the gravy and mix gently. Allow it to simmer for another 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves on top for a burst of freshness and color. Enjoy the Royal Feast!Your Chicken Akbari is ready to be served. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, naan, or paratha. The creamy texture, combined with the aromatic spices, will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Final ThoughtsIndulge in the opulence of Mughlai cuisine right in your own kitchen. Chicken Akbari is a dish fit for emperors, and now you can savor it whenever you please. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a culinary adventure that will transport you to the grandeur of the Mughal era.
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