Bring Coastal Flavors Home with This Kerala Chicken Curry Recipe
Are you tired of the same old buttery and creamy chicken curries? Do you crave something with a fresh, coastal twist? This Kerala Chicken Curry recipe offers exactly that. It combines marinated chicken with a unique coconut paste, creating a dish that bursts with flavor. The result is a refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with rice, parotta, or appam. Let's dive into how you can make this delicious curry in your own kitchen.
What You'll Need: Ingredients for Kerala Chicken Curry
Gather these ingredients to start cooking. You will need 750 grams of chicken as the main protein. For the marinade, use half a teaspoon of turmeric powder, one teaspoon of red chilli powder, and salt according to your taste. The cooking process requires three tablespoons of coconut oil, two large onions, one tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, two to three green chillies, and two sprigs of curry leaves.
Add two medium tomatoes for acidity and richness. The spice mix includes one and a half teaspoons of coriander powder, one teaspoon of red chilli powder, half a teaspoon of turmeric powder, half a teaspoon of garam masala, and salt to taste. You will also need water as required during cooking.
For the special coconut paste, prepare half a cup of grated fresh coconut, one teaspoon of fennel seeds, and one teaspoon of cumin seeds. Finally, for the tempering, have one teaspoon of mustard seeds, one dry red chilli, one sprig of curry leaves, and one tablespoon of coconut oil ready.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, wash the chicken pieces thoroughly. Place them in a mixing bowl. This ensures they are clean and ready for marination.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt to the chicken in the bowl. Mix everything well so that the spices coat the chicken evenly. Let this mixture sit for fifteen to twenty minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Paste
While the chicken marinates, prepare the coconut paste. Take the grated fresh coconut, fennel seeds, and cumin seeds. Blend them together in a blender until they form a smooth paste. Set this aside for later use.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste, green chillies, and curry leaves. Cook this mixture for a few minutes until it becomes fragrant.
Step 5: Add the Spices
Now, incorporate all the dry spices: coriander powder, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook this spice blend with the onion mixture. Continue cooking until the oil starts to separate from the spices. This indicates that the spices are well-roasted and aromatic.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Mix it well with the spice and onion base. Cook for about five minutes on medium heat, allowing the chicken to sear slightly. Then, add the prepared coconut paste to the pan. Adjust the consistency by adding water as needed. Cover the pan and let it cook for approximately twenty-five minutes. This slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors.
Step 7: Prepare the Tempering and Serve
In a small pan, heat one tablespoon of coconut oil. Add mustard seeds, a dry red chilli, and a sprig of curry leaves. Let them crackle for a few seconds. Pour this tempering over the cooked chicken curry. Give it a gentle stir. Your Kerala Chicken Curry is now ready to serve. Enjoy it hot with steamed rice, flaky parotta, or soft appam for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Kerala Chicken Curry recipe brings the authentic taste of coastal India to your table. The use of fresh coconut and aromatic spices like fennel and cumin creates a distinctive flavor profile. Unlike heavier curries, this dish feels light and refreshing. It is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The step-by-step process makes it easy to follow, even for beginners in the kitchen.
Remember, the key to a great curry lies in marination and slow cooking. Take your time with each step to achieve the best results. Happy cooking, and savor the delicious coastal flavors of Kerala right at home!
