Healthy Chicken Korma – A Creamy Almond Delight
Description: Indulge in a bowl of comforting and rich Chicken Korma, where tender pieces of chicken are enveloped in a fragrant, creamy almond sauce, delicately spiced with a perfect balance of turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and more. This mild yet flavorful dish is an excellent choice for those who enjoy subtle spice profiles, offering both nourishment and taste in every bite.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Serves: 4 people
- Views: 115,569
- Rating: 3.6 stars
- Number of Votes: 163
- Dietary Information: Contains Nuts
- Spice Level: Mild
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Natural yoghurt | 6-8 tbsp |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Ground cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground coriander seeds | 1 tsp |
| Saffron threads | Pinch |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 3 cm |
| Garlic cloves, crushed | 4 |
| Skinless free-range chicken breast, cubed | 4 pieces (about 600g) |
| Rapeseed oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion, very finely chopped or grated | 1 medium |
| Ground almonds | 2-3 tbsp |
| Ground coconut | 2 tbsp |
| Flaked toasted almonds | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander, chopped | Large pinch |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spices:
Begin by grinding your whole spices—cumin, coriander, and cinnamon—using a spice grinder to ensure they are finely ground and release their aromatic oils. This step infuses the dish with a depth of flavor. -
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Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the natural yoghurt with turmeric, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground coriander, saffron threads, grated fresh ginger, and crushed garlic. Stir the ingredients well to form a smooth paste. Add the chicken cubes into the mixture and coat them thoroughly. Allow the chicken to marinate in the spice blend for at least 30 minutes, though longer marination will enhance the flavor. For best results, marinate overnight in the fridge. -
Cook the Onion:
Heat the rapeseed oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped or grated onion and cook until it softens and begins to turn golden. Be cautious not to let the onions brown too much. If the onions stick to the pan, add a splash of water to help them soften without burning. -
Add the Chicken:
Stir in the marinated chicken and its yoghurt mixture. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown and cook through slightly. -
Simmer and Cook Through:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the chicken simmer for 5 minutes to tenderize further and absorb all the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding a splash of hot water if the mixture appears too dry. -
Incorporate the Almonds and Coconut:
Stir in the ground almonds and ground coconut, which will create a creamy texture and enhance the dish’s richness. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more hot water to loosen it up. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and tender. -
Toast the Almond Slivers:
In a separate dry pan, lightly toast the flaked almonds over medium heat. Stir often to prevent burning, and cook until they turn golden brown. Set them aside to cool. -
Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped coriander and top with the toasted almonds. These finishing touches add a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness to your Chicken Korma.
Allergen Information
This dish contains nuts, specifically ground almonds and toasted flaked almonds. It is important to note for those with allergies to nuts, as the presence of almonds may pose a risk.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy: The dish contains natural yoghurt and ground coconut, so it may not be suitable for individuals avoiding dairy.
- Vegetarian Option: While this recipe uses chicken, it can be easily adapted to a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or a hearty vegetable, such as cauliflower, for a similar texture.
- Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, the ground almonds and toasted almonds can be omitted or substituted with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Tips and Advice
- Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes will still provide good results, but overnight marination is ideal.
- Coconut Milk Alternative: If you want a creamier texture or more richness, you can replace the ground coconut with a bit of coconut milk.
- Spice Adjustments: While this recipe is mild, you can always increase the amount of turmeric or ginger for a little extra zing. A pinch of chili flakes or fresh green chilies can also be added for those who prefer a spicier version.
Conclusion
This Healthy Chicken Korma recipe strikes the perfect balance between creaminess and spice, offering a flavorful and nutritious meal for anyone looking to enjoy a milder Indian-inspired dish. With the richness of almonds and coconut, this dish is both satisfying and heartwarming, making it a great option for family dinners or special occasions. Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan for the ultimate meal experience. Enjoy this delightful comfort food and savor the healthy twist on a traditional classic!
