Kerala Chicken Curry Made Easy Wish This 7 Step Guide

Kerala Chicken Curry is a rich and aromatic South Indian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a luscious coconut milk-based sauce. Infused with a blend of spices such as turmeric, coriander, and garam masala, and seasoned with mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and curry leaves, this curry offers a harmonious balance of heat, sweetness, and depth. The use of coconut oil adds a distinctive flavor, making it a comforting and flavorful meal that's perfect with steamed rice, appam, or paratha.

Here’s a flavorful recipe for Kerala Chicken Curry, a traditional South Indian dish known for its aromatic spices and rich coconut flavor:

1. Ingredients

For the Marinade:

– 1 lb (450g) chicken, cut into pieces
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/2 tsp red chili powder
– 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
– Salt to taste

For the Curry:

– 2 tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
– 1 large onion, finely sliced
– 1-2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
– 1 tsp mustard seeds
– 8-10 curry leaves
– Fresh cilantro for garnish

2. Instructions

Step 1- Marinate the Chicken:

– In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with turmeric powder, red chili powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2- Cook the Base:

– Heat coconut oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
– Add the mustard seeds and fennel seeds. When they start to splutter, add the sliced onions and green chilies.
– Sauté until the onions are golden brown.

Step 3- Add Aromatics:

– Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
– Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and become soft.

Step 4- Cook the Chicken:

– Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the onion-tomato mixture.
– Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown slightly.

Step 5- Add Spices:

– Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Stir to mix the spices evenly with the chicken.
– Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6- Finish the Curry:

– Add the coconut milk and curry leaves. Stir well and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the curry to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Step 7- Garnish and Serve:

– Garnish with fresh cilantro.
– Serve hot with steamed rice, appam, or paratha.

Enjoy your Kerala Chicken Curry with the rich flavors of South India!