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Chicken Ghee Roast

Chicken Ghee Roast
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Chicken Ghee Roast is a traditional South Indian dish featuring tender chicken pieces marinated in a spicy, tangy blend and cooked slowly in aromatic ghee with a special mix of spices. This recipe delivers a rich, smoky flavor with a perfect balance of heat, earthiness, and tang, making it a versatile and flavorful meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 kg bone-in chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 tbsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • 2 tbsp garlic and ginger paste
  • 1 tbsp tamarind pulp or paste
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

For Roasting and Tempering

  • 4 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 sprig fresh curry leaves
  • 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
  • 1–2 tbsp oil (optional, for high heat cooking)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Clean and pat dry the chicken pieces. In a bowl, mix turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garlic-ginger paste, tamarind pulp, and salt. Massage this marinade evenly over each chicken piece. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
  2. Prepare the Spice Base: Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter. Then add curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté until fragrant to build the aromatic foundation of the dish.
  3. Roast the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot ghee. Sear on high heat, stirring continuously to prevent the coating from burning while allowing it to develop a nice char. This step creates the signature smoky flavor and deep color.
  4. Simmer and Cook Through: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook in its own juices. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and cook until the chicken is tender and the gravy thickens, coating the pieces beautifully.
  5. Final Touches: Once tender, increase the heat briefly to reduce any excess moisture, intensifying the flavor and adding slight crispness to the outer layer. Garnish with fresh curry leaves before serving for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh, pure, and aromatic ghee for the best flavor.
  • Allow the chicken to brown well during roasting to unlock smoky flavor and richer color.
  • Adjust tamarind pulp gradually to balance tanginess without overpowering.
  • Keep the pan uncovered when reducing moisture to reach the perfect sauce consistency.
  • Serve immediately for the best taste and aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Ghee Roast, South Indian Chicken Recipe, Spicy Chicken, Traditional Indian Chicken, Gluten Free Chicken Recipe

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/chicken-ghee-roast/