Tandoori Chicken
Indian cuisine is known for its distinct flavor profile and aromatic spices that make each dish a unique and unforgettable experience. One such dish that has taken the world by storm is the delectable Tandoori Chicken. Tandoori Chicken is a widely popular dish that originates from the North Indian state of Punjab. It is a dish made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, which is then cooked in a Tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven used in Indian cooking.
The history of Tandoori Chicken dates back to the Mughal era in India. Mughal emperors were known for their culinary skills and were passionate about food. They were the ones who introduced the concept of Tandoors in India. Initially, Tandoori Chicken was a dish that was restricted to the royal kitchens and was served only to the elites. However, with time, the popularity of the dish grew, and it eventually made its way to the common man’s table.
The beauty of Tandoori Chicken lies in the perfect balance of spices and the smoky flavor that comes from cooking it in a Tandoor. The marinade used to prepare Tandoori Chicken includes a combination of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The yogurt in the marinade serves a dual purpose - it tenderizes the chicken, making it soft and succulent, and at the same time, the acids in it help to infuse the flavors of the spices into the chicken.
To prepare the Tandoori Chicken, the marinated chicken is skewered and placed in a Tandoor. The Tandoor is a clay oven that cooks the chicken at high temperatures, giving it a smoky flavor that is unmatched. However, not everyone has access to the Tandoor, and in such cases, the chicken can be grilled or baked in an oven.
Tandoori Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It can be served as a starter, as a main course, or even as a snack. It pairs perfectly with a variety of sides such as naan bread, rice, or salad. It is also a healthy dish as it is high in protein and low in fat.
In conclusion, Tandoori Chicken is a dish that has stood the test of time and has become a favorite among food lovers around the world. Its unique flavor profile and versatility make it a perfect dish to prepare for any occasion. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in the delectable flavors of Tandoori Chicken.
Ingredients:
1 kg chicken, cut into pieces 1 cup plain yogurt 2 tbsp tandoori masala powder 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp oil Salt to taste For garnishing: Lemon wedges Chopped coriander leaves Onion rings Method:
- Wash the chicken pieces under running water and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
- In a bowl, add yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala powder, lemon juice, oil and salt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to coat. Keep it aside for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 220°C.
- Place the chicken pieces on a baking tray lined with aluminium foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with lemon wedges, chopped coriander leaves, and onion rings.
- Serve hot with mint chutney and naan or rice.