Butter chicken

Butter Chicken and Naan

Butter chicken is a popular food item from the South Asia

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish known for its rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. It is a classic North Indian dish that has gained international recognition and is loved by people around the world. Butter chicken is a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce that is usually served with naan bread or steamed rice.

History

Butter chicken has its origins in the city of Delhi, India. It is believed to have been created by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of the famous restaurant Moti Mahal, in the 1950s. The dish was born out of a desire to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken by cooking it in a rich tomato-based sauce. Gujral came up with the idea of adding butter and cream to the sauce, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish that became an instant hit.

Preparation

To prepare butter chicken, chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. The marinated chicken is then traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) to achieve a smoky flavor and tender texture. However, it can also be grilled or cooked on a stovetop.

The sauce for butter chicken is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until they turn golden brown. Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes are added to the mixture, along with a blend of spices such as garam masala, chili powder, and turmeric. The sauce is simmered until it thickens, and then heavy cream or cashew paste is added to give it a rich and creamy consistency. The cooked tandoori chicken is then added to the sauce and simmered further to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Accompaniments

Butter chicken is typically served with naan bread, which is a soft and fluffy Indian bread made from white flour. The naan is perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce. It can also be enjoyed with steamed basmati rice or pulao (fragrant rice dish).

To enhance the dining experience, butter chicken is often garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a drizzle of cream. It can be accompanied by various condiments such as sliced onions, lemon wedges, or mint chutney for added freshness and tanginess.

Popularity

Butter chicken has gained immense popularity not only in India but also globally. Its rich and creamy flavor, combined with the perfect balance of spices, has made it a favorite among food enthusiasts. It is a staple dish in Indian restaurants worldwide, and its popularity has led to various adaptations and variations to suit different palates.

Ingredients:

1. 250g boneless chicken, cut into small pieces
2. 2 medium onions, finely chopped
3. 3 cloves of garlic, minced
4. 1 inch ginger, minced
5. 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
6. 1 cup heavy cream
7. 2 tbsp butter
8. 1 tsp red chili powder
9. 1 tsp turmeric powder
10. 1 tsp cumin powder
11. 1 tsp coriander powder
12. Salt to taste
13. 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a pan, heat the butter and add the onions, garlic and ginger. Fry until the onions are golden brown.
2. Add the chicken pieces and fry for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned.
3. Add the pureed tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder and salt. Mix well.
4. Add the heavy cream and stir well.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Variations of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken has inspired various regional and modern variations, each adding its own unique twist to the classic dish. Some popular variations include:

Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer butter masala is a vegetarian variation of butter chicken. Instead of chicken, paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is used as the main ingredient. The paneer is cooked in a similar tomato-based sauce, enriched with butter and cream. It is a delicious alternative for those who prefer a vegetarian option.

Vegan Butter Chicken

To cater to the growing demand for vegan alternatives, vegan versions of butter chicken have been developed. In this variation, chicken is substituted with plant-based proteins such as tofu, tempeh, or soy chunks. Cashew cream or coconut milk is used instead of dairy cream, and vegan butter or oil is used in place of dairy butter. The flavors are carefully balanced to recreate the creamy and rich taste of traditional butter chicken.

Murgh Makhanwala

Murgh makhanwala is another name for butter chicken and is commonly used in some regions of India. The dish follows a similar preparation method as butter chicken, with the key difference being the specific combination of spices and the cooking techniques employed by different chefs and restaurants.

Healthier Versions

As people become more health-conscious, lighter versions of butter chicken have emerged. These versions often use lean chicken breast instead of dark meat and reduce the amount of butter and cream used in the sauce. Yogurt or low-fat milk may be used as a substitute for heavy cream, while still maintaining the essence and flavors of the dish.

Cultural Significance

Butter chicken holds cultural significance in Indian cuisine. It represents the rich and indulgent flavors associated with North Indian culinary traditions. The dish is commonly served at special occasions, festivals, and celebrations, showcasing the heritage and gastronomic diversity of India.

Popularization in Western Culture

Butter chicken's popularity extends beyond India and has become a favorite in Western countries. Its creamy and flavorful profile, along with its accessibility in Indian restaurants, has made it a go-to choice for those seeking to explore Indian cuisine. Butter chicken has even made appearances in cookbooks, cooking shows, and international food festivals, further solidifying its place in Western culinary culture.

Also see

• Keto Indian recipes
• Ketogenic diet

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See Also

Indian Cuisine Tandoori Chicken Naan Bread