Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of dhaba style chicken? This recipe combines tender chicken drumsticks with a rich and flavorful Indian gravy, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s explore the step-by-step process of making this delightful meal, along with some tips and tricks to elevate your cooking experience.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you need:
- Chicken drumsticks – 700 grams
- Onions – 3-4 thinly sliced
- Tomato paste – 250 grams
- Ginger & garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
- Gujarati garam masala – 2-3 tablespoons
- Salt and red chili powder to taste
- Coriander powder – 2 tablespoons
- Turmeric – 1/4 teaspoon
- Oil – 3-4 tablespoons
- Cumin seeds, cloves, black pepper, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf for tempering
Preparing the Chicken
The first step in making dhaba style chicken is marinating the chicken drumsticks. In a bowl, combine the following:
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons of Gujarati garam masala
Mix these ingredients with some water to create a marinade. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Creating the Flavorful Gravy
Now it’s time to prepare the gravy. In a pan, heat about 3-4 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the following whole spices:
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 whole black cardamoms
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
These spices will infuse the oil with incredible flavor. Next, add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped garlic and 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds. Sauté these ingredients until fragrant.
Cooking the Onions
Next, add the thinly sliced onions to the pan. Cook them until they become transparent and start to caramelize. This step usually takes around 10 minutes, and it’s crucial for developing the dish’s depth of flavor.
Adding the Spices
Once the onions are ready, add 2 teaspoons of finely chopped ginger and mix well. This will add a lovely warmth to your gravy. After that, introduce the marinated chicken along with 2 tablespoons of coriander powder and the tomato paste.
Simmering to Perfection
Stir everything together and cook until the oil separates from the mixture, which usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. This indicates that the spices have fully released their flavors. Cover the pan and let the chicken cook on a slow flame for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Final Touches
After about half an hour, check if the chicken is cooked through. It should be tender and juicy. Once done, garnish with fresh coriander leaves for an extra burst of flavor. Your dhaba style chicken is now ready to be served!
Serving Suggestions
Dhaba style chicken is best enjoyed with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also pair it with a side of cucumber salad or raita to balance the spices. The rich, bold flavors of the chicken complement the softness of the rice or bread perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Dhaba Style Chicken
- Marination Time: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or even overnight if possible.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- Slow Cooking: Cooking on low heat allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the spices beautifully.
- Garam Masala: Using homemade garam masala can elevate the dish even further, giving it a unique touch.
Conclusion
Dhaba style chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Indian roadside eateries to your home. With its rich gravy and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy the aromatic journey of flavors that this dish has to offer.