Butter Chicken or indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular dish that originated in the Punjab region of India. It is a creamy and flavorful dish that is loved by many. The dish is made with marinated chicken that is cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is typically served with rice or naan bread.
The history of Indian Butter Chicken dates back to the 1950s when it was invented by Kundan Lal Gujral, the owner of a popular restaurant in Delhi. The dish was created as a way to use leftover tandoori chicken and to make it more palatable for his customers. The dish quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in Indian cuisine.
Indian Butter Chicken is made with a variety of ingredients including chicken, yogurt, cream, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The preparation method involves marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices before grilling it in a tandoor oven. The cooked chicken is then added to a sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and a blend of spices. The dish is typically garnished with fresh cilantro and served with rice or naan bread.
Key Takeaways
- Indian Butter Chicken is a popular dish that originated in the Punjab region of India.
- The dish was created in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral and has since become a staple in Indian cuisine.
- The dish is made with a variety of ingredients and is typically served with rice or naan bread.
History of Indian Butter Chicken
Origins
Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish that originated in the Punjab region of India. The dish was first created by a chef named Kundan Lal Gujral, who owned a restaurant called Moti Mahal in Delhi, India. Gujral is credited with inventing the dish in the 1950s, which has since become a staple in Indian cuisine.
The dish is made with boneless chicken that is marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, and then grilled or baked. The chicken is then added to a rich, creamy tomato sauce that is flavored with butter, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. The dish is typically served with rice or naan bread.
Cultural Significance
Indian Butter Chicken has become an iconic dish in Indian cuisine, and is enjoyed by people all over the world. The dish is often associated with celebrations and special occasions, and is a popular choice for weddings and other festive events.
The dish has also become a symbol of India’s rich culinary heritage, and is often used to showcase the country’s diverse and flavorful cuisine. In recent years, Indian Butter Chicken has gained popularity in Western countries, and has become a favorite among foodies and Indian cuisine enthusiasts.
Overall, Indian Butter Chicken is a beloved dish that has a rich history and cultural significance. Its delicious flavors and aromatic spices have made it a staple in Indian cuisine, and a favorite among food lovers around the world.
Ingredients
Chicken
The star of the dish is undoubtedly the chicken. Boneless chicken is typically used for Indian Butter Chicken. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Dairy Products
Dairy products are a crucial component of Indian Butter Chicken. Ghee, a type of clarified butter, is used to sauté the chicken and onions. Heavy cream is added to the tomato-based sauce to give it a rich and creamy texture. Yogurt is used to marinate the chicken and add a tangy flavor.
Spices and Herbs
A blend of spices and herbs is what gives Indian Butter Chicken its distinctive flavor. The most commonly used spices include cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Fresh herbs like cilantro are used as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Tomatoes and Onions
Tomatoes and onions are the base of the sauce for Indian Butter Chicken. The onions are sautéed in ghee until they are soft and translucent. The tomatoes are then added along with a variety of spices and cooked until they break down and form a thick sauce.
Overall, Indian Butter Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is made with a combination of simple yet essential ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp ginger, minced
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Preparation Method
Marination
To prepare Indian Butter Chicken, marination is an essential step that helps to infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderize it. The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice for a few hours or overnight. This not only helps to tenderize the chicken but also adds a tangy flavor to it.
Cooking Technique
Once the chicken is marinated, it is cooked in a tomato-based sauce that is flavored with a variety of spices. The sauce is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until they are soft and fragrant. Then, tomato puree and a blend of spices such as garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric are added to the pan.
After the sauce is cooked for a few minutes, the marinated chicken is added to the pan and cooked until it is tender and fully cooked through. Finally, a generous amount of cream is added to the pan, giving the dish its signature creamy texture and flavor.
Overall, the preparation method for Indian Butter Chicken is a multi-step process that requires patience and attention to detail. However, the end result is a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
Indian Butter Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Naan Bread: Soft and fluffy, naan bread is the perfect complement to butter chicken. It can be used to scoop up the sauce or to soak up the flavors of the dish.
- Basmati Rice: The fragrant and fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing with Indian dishes. It can be served plain or flavored with spices like cumin or cardamom.
- Raita: This yogurt-based side dish is a cooling and refreshing addition to the meal. It can be made with cucumber, mint, or other herbs and spices.
Presentation
Presentation is an important aspect of any meal. Here are a few tips to make your butter chicken look as good as it tastes:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top of the dish to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve in a Copper Bowl: Butter chicken looks stunning when served in a traditional copper bowl. The metal not only adds to the presentation but also helps to keep the dish warm.
- Use Colorful Plates: Serve the butter chicken on a colorful plate to make the dish stand out. A bright red or blue plate can add a pop of color to the meal.
By following these simple suggestions, you can elevate your Indian Butter Chicken experience and impress your guests with your culinary skills.