Creamy Chicken Pasanda

In the realm of sumptuous Indian cuisine, a special place is reserved for the creamy, aromatic, and utterly satisfying Chicken Pasanda. This dish, with its roots in the regal kitchens of the Mughal Empire, offers a milder yet profoundly flavorful experience, making it a perfect introduction for those new to Indian cuisine as well as a comfort food for the aficionados. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a step-by-step guide to creating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

• Main Components:
  • 2 tbsp ghee (or sunflower oil, for a lighter version)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped for a sweet, aromatic base
  • 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g/1.1lbs), chopped into bite-size chunks for easy cooking and eating
  • 240 ml (1 cup) full-fat plain yogurt, adding a creamy tang
  • 60 ml (¼ cup) double (heavy) cream, for that luxurious texture
  • 3 tbsp ground almonds (almond meal), the secret to its characteristic nutty flavor
• Spices That Warm the Heart:
  • 3 cardamom pods, 2 cloves garlic, and 2 tsp minced ginger for that initial spice kick
  • A blend of 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 and 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1.5 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp mild chilli powder (optional), 1/2 tsp turmeric, enriching the dish with depth and complexity
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• Garnishes for That Final Touch:
  • Toasted almond flakes and freshly chopped coriander (cilantro), adding texture and freshness

The Making of a Masterpiece

1. Preparation in Full Swing: Begin by heating the ghee in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened, laying the foundation of your dish with its sweet and savory notes.
2. Adding the Protagonist: Introduce the chicken pieces along with the cardamom pods, and let them sizzle for about 5 minutes. This process seals the flavors within the chicken, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
3. Spicing Things Up: Stir in the garlic, ginger, and all the powdered spices, enveloping the chicken in the warm, aromatic spices for about 2 minutes until well-coated.
4. The Creamy Transformation: The magic happens as you gently fold in the yogurt, cream, and ground almonds. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil before reducing the heat to simmer. This simmering for 6-8 minutes not only cooks the chicken to perfection but also thickens the sauce into a creamy delight.
5. The Finishing Touch: A final stir of fresh coriander before serving adds a burst of freshness, contrasting beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce.

Serving the Royal Feast

Ladle the Chicken Pasanda onto a plate, garnishing it with toasted almond flakes and additional chopped coriander. Serve this royal dish with steaming hot boiled rice and/or chapati, inviting you to dip, scoop, and enjoy every flavorful bite.

Nutritional Sketch

For those curious about the dietary aspects, this dish approximates 382 kcal per serving, making it a rich yet balanced option. The given recipe serves 4, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Closing Thoughts

The Creamy Chicken Pasanda is more than just a meal; it’s a voyage through history, a celebration of flavors, and a testament to the richness of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe promises a rewarding experience both in the making and the tasting. Bon Appétit!

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