An Easy Guide to Cooking Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala and Mutton Pulao

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Delving into the rich and aromatic world of Indian cuisine can be a delightful journey. Among the gems of this culinary treasure trove are two dishes beloved by both novices and connoisseurs alike: Chicken Tikka Masala and Mutton Pulao. This guide will provide you with an easy approach to prepare these mouth-watering dishes in your own kitchen, promising an authentic taste experience that bridges continents.

Chicken Tikka Masala

The Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish of roasted chunks of chicken enveloped in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. It’s a popular comfort food known for its aromatic blend of spices.

Ingredients:

  • 500g chicken breast, cut into chunks

  • 1 cup plain yogurt (for marination)

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • 2 teaspoons cumin powder

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • 2 teaspoons black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala

  • 2 teaspoons paprika

  • 1 cup of tomato puree

  • 1 cup cream

  • 1/4 cup cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, black pepper, ginger, and salt for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight).

  2. Preheat your grill or oven to a high temperature. Place chicken on skewers, and cook until done. Set aside.

  3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sautรฉ onions and garlic until translucent.

  4. Add garam masala, paprika, tomato puree; simmer for 15 minutes.

  5. Add grilled chicken pieces into the sauce, pour in cream, and simmer for another 10 minutes.

  6. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Mutton Pulao

Mutton Pulao is a fragrant and flavorful dish combining tender mutton pieces with basmati rice, infused with whole spices. This one-pot meal is a staple in many Indian households.

Ingredients:

  • 500g mutton, cut into pieces

  • 2 cups basmati rice

  • 4 cups water

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 4 whole cloves

  • 4 cardamom pods

  • 1 inch cinnamon stick

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

  • 1/2 cup yogurt

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear, then soak for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a large pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon. Sautรฉ until aromatic.

  3. Add onions and cook until golden brown.

  4. Add mutton and brown on all sides.

  5. Add ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, salt, and yogurt. Cook until the oil separates.

  6. Add water and bring to a boil. Simmer until the mutton is tender.

  7. Add rice, cover, and cook on low heat until the rice is done and water is absorbed.

  8. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Key Takeaways

  • Marinating the chicken overnight for the Tikka Masala can enhance the flavor profoundly.

  • Using whole spices in the Mutton Pulao brings out a more authentic and aromatic flavor.

  • Both dishes are versatile and can be adjusted according to taste preferences and dietary requirements.

  • Patience is key! Allowing the dishes to simmer properly will result in tender meat and flavorful dishes.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of mutton in Pulao?

Yes, beef can be a good substitute for mutton in Pulao though the cooking times may vary as beef tends to cook longer than mutton.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala very spicy?

The spice level of Chicken Tikka Masala can be adjusted to suit your taste. Reducing the amount of cayenne pepper can make it less spicy.

Can I make these dishes ahead of time?

Yes, both dishes actually taste better when made ahead as the flavors develop more fully. Just ensure to refrigerate and reheat well before serving.

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