10 Steps To Make Perfect Pepper Chicken Masala

Pepper Chicken Masala is a flavorful and hearty curry that highlights the warmth and complexity of black pepper. This dish is a celebration of spicy, savory goodness, with layers of flavor that are both comforting and invigorating.

Pepper Chicken Masala is a spicy and flavorful South Indian dish that highlights the warmth of black pepper combined with tender chicken and aromatic spices. Here's a straightforward recipe to make this delectable dish:

1. Ingredients

- Chicken: 500 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces

- Oil: 2 tablespoons

- Onion: 2 large, finely chopped

- Tomato: 1 large, finely chopped

- Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon

- Green chilies: 2, slit (adjust to taste)

- Black pepper powder: 2 tablespoons (or to taste)

- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon

- Coriander powder: 1 tablespoon

- Garam masala: 1/2 teaspoon

- Curry leaves: A few

- Salt: To taste

- Cilantro (coriander leaves): A handful, chopped (for garnish)

- Water: 1/2 to 1 cup (adjust based on desired consistency)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Chicken:

- Clean and wash the chicken pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside.

Step 2 -Heat Oil and Saut Onions:

- Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.

- Add finely chopped onions and saut until they turn golden brown.

Step 3- Add Ginger-Garlic Paste and Green Chilies:

- Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Saut for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Step 4- Incorporate Tomatoes:

- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and turn into a thick paste.

Step 5- Add Spices:

- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute or until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Step 6- Cook the Chicken:

- Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the masala.

- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7- Add Water and Simmer:

- Pour in 1/2 to 1 cup of water, depending on how thick or saucy you want the curry to be.

- Add black pepper powder and garam masala. Mix well.

- Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 8- Add Curry Leaves:

- Add a few curry leaves towards the end of the cooking time for added aroma and flavor.

Step 9- Garnish and Serve:

- Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy has reached the desired consistency, garnish with chopped cilantro (coriander leaves).

Step 10- Enjoy:

- Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

This Pepper Chicken Masala is aromatic, spicy, and rich, perfect for those who enjoy a robust and peppery flavor in their chicken dishes. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste and enjoy a flavorful South Indian classic!