Konaseema Kodi Kura Recipe – Andhra Style Chicken Curry
Description:
Konaseema Kodi Kura is a beloved and flavorful chicken curry from the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, known for its aromatic spices and rich taste. A dish that effortlessly blends the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the warmth of traditional Andhra flavors, it is a comforting, spicy delight. This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or even roti, offering a complete meal experience that everyone will enjoy. With a mix of fresh spices, coconut milk, and a hint of nuttiness from peanuts, this recipe is an excellent addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (washed & cleaned) | 1/2 kg |
| Onion (chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1 cup |
| Green Chillies | 2 |
| Dry Red Chilli | 2 |
| Poppy Seeds | 2 teaspoons |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 3 tablespoons |
| Curry Leaves | 4 leaves |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coconut Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coriander (chopped) | A few sprigs |
| Oil | As required |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 275 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
Instructions
-
Preparation of Chicken:
Begin by cleaning and washing the chicken pieces. Set aside to drain any excess water. -
-
Roasting the Spices:
In a small pan, dry roast the dried red chilies, poppy seeds, and peanuts over medium heat for 5-6 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once roasted, set the spices aside to cool. After cooling, grind them together into a smooth paste using a little water if necessary. -
Cooking the Base:
Heat oil in a pressure cooker or large pot. Add the chopped onions, curry leaves, and chopped green chilies. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their aroma. This should take around 5-7 minutes. -
Adding Ginger-Garlic Paste:
Once the onions are cooked, add the ginger garlic paste. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears. -
Cooking the Chicken:
Add the washed chicken pieces to the pot along with salt and turmeric powder. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the spices. Let the chicken cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to sear lightly. -
Adding the Roasted Paste:
Now, add the smooth paste you made earlier (roasted red chilies, poppy seeds, and peanuts) into the pot. Stir well to combine. -
Adding Tomato Puree and Spices:
Add the homemade tomato puree to the mixture, followed by coriander powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Stir to combine the spices and let the curry simmer for about 2 minutes. -
Pressure Cooking:
Pour in 1/2 cup of water to create a bit of gravy. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes. You should hear two whistles, indicating that the chicken has cooked through. If using a regular pot, cover and simmer until the chicken is tender, about 20-25 minutes. -
Finishing the Dish:
After the pressure has been released, open the cooker and stir the curry gently. Add garam masala powder and coconut milk, mixing it thoroughly. Let the curry simmer on low heat for another 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken slightly. -
Garnishing and Serving:
Garnish the curry with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti for a delicious, hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Konaseema Kodi Kura pairs beautifully with steamed rice or any traditional Indian flatbread like roti or paratha. For a complete Andhra-style meal, consider serving it alongside Andhra Fish Fry (Chepa Vepudu) and a cool, refreshing cucumber raita. This dish also makes an excellent choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners when you’re craving something rich and full of flavor.
Tips for Best Results:
- Customizing Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder. Conversely, for a spicier version, increase these ingredients.
- Nuts & Paste: The peanuts and poppy seeds paste is key to the unique flavor of Konaseema Kodi Kura. You can prepare the paste ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days for convenience.
- Coconut Milk: For a richer taste, use full-fat coconut milk. If you’re looking for a lighter option, opt for light coconut milk or even a small amount of coconut cream.
This Andhra-style chicken curry is a comforting and aromatic dish that brings together the bold flavors of southern India. It’s a great example of how regional cooking can offer something hearty, quick, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a fantastic dish. Enjoy the rich flavors of Andhra in your own home with Konaseema Kodi Kura!
