Kerala Chicken Curry

Ingredients:

For Marinating the Chicken:

  • 1.5 pounds (about 700g) chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • Salt to taste

For the Curry:

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or any vegetable oil)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 sprig of curry leaves
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Kerala Chicken Curry:

  1. In a large, deep pan or pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
  3. Stir in the green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, and curry leaves. Cook for a few minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and start to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well and cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are fragrant.
  6. Now, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and sear them for a few minutes until they turn white.
  7. Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
  8. Bring the curry to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  9. Check the seasoning and adjust the spice and salt levels if needed.
  10. Garnish the Kerala Chicken Curry with fresh cilantro leaves.
  11. Serve the chicken curry hot with steamed rice or traditional Kerala parotta.

Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of Kerala Chicken Curry, a South Indian culinary delight!