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Malabar Chicken Curry Recipe

Malabar Chicken Curry Recipe

Malabar Chicken Curry is a traditional Kerala dish made with succulent chicken cooked in a spicy coconut-based gravy. This flavorful curry is perfect for enjoying with rice or appam.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian, Kerala, South Indian
Servings 2
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 500 gm chicken (bone-in or boneless)
  • 1 tbsp turmeric powder
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 10-12 curry leaves
  • 2 onions (finely chopped)
  • 2 tomatoes (pureed)
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2-3 green chilies (slit)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a mixing bowl, marinate the chicken pieces with turmeric powder and salt. Set aside for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Curry Base:

  • Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add curry leaves and chopped onions. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
  • Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Spices:

  • Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the masala (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Add coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

Cook the Chicken:

  • Add the marinated chicken to the curry base and cook for 10 minutes until the chicken starts to brown slightly.
  • Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Cover and cook for 15 minutes on low heat.

Add Coconut Milk:

  • Add the coconut milk, stir well, and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Make sure not to boil the coconut milk.

Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice, appam, or chapati.

Notes

  • Variation: You can add boiled eggs or potatoes for added texture and flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
  • Serving Tip: Serve with steamed rice or appam for an authentic Kerala meal experience.
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