Chicken Cooked in Banana Leaves
This Chicken Cooked in Banana Leaves recipe combines the richness of Indian spices with the earthy flavor imparted by banana leaves. This method of cooking locks in the chicken’s moisture, creating a tender and aromatic dish that is perfect as an appetizer. The spices and herbs used in the marinade bring an explosion of flavors, while the banana leaves add a natural fragrance that elevates the dish. Ideal for those looking for a high-protein, non-vegetarian treat, this dish will leave your guests craving for more.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken (cut into 2-inch cubes) | 500 grams |
| Lemon | 1 |
| Green Chillies | 2 |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 10 sprigs |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 10 |
| Star Anise | 3 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 5 |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt (to taste) | – |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | Β½ teaspoon |
| Banana Leaves | 2 leaves |
| Cotton Thread | As required |
| Sunflower Oil | As required |
Preparation Time:
- 75 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 95 minutes
Servings:
- 2 servings
Cuisine:
- Indian
Course:
- Appetizer
Diet:
- High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Spice Paste:
- Begin by preparing the spice mixture for the chicken. In a mixer or food processor, combine the green chillies, coriander leaves (including stems), ginger garlic paste, black peppercorns, star anise, and cloves. Grind these ingredients into a coarse paste, ensuring that all the flavors are well-combined.
-
-
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the boneless chicken cubes. Pour in the freshly ground spice mixture, followed by the juice of one lemon, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and salt to taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each chicken piece is evenly coated with the aromatic marinade.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for about 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
-
Prepare the Banana Leaves:
- After the chicken has marinated, take the banana leaves and cut them into squares of approximately 4 inches in size. These will be used to wrap the chicken pieces into parcels for cooking.
-
Assemble the Parcels:
- Take a piece of the marinated chicken and place it in the center of each banana leaf square. Carefully fold the leaf to enclose the chicken, forming a secure parcel.
- Tie the parcels tightly with cotton thread to ensure the contents are securely wrapped and the flavors are preserved while cooking.
-
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, gently place the banana leaf parcels into the pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it will prevent the parcels from cooking evenly.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook the parcels for 15 to 20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook on both sides.
-
Serve:
- After cooking, carefully open the banana leaf parcels and serve the chicken hot. The banana leaves will have imparted a beautiful aroma to the chicken, making it a visually appealing and flavorful dish.
- Chicken Cooked in Banana Leaves can be served as a delectable appetizer, paired with other appetizers such as Mushroom Poha Cutlets or Easy Sabudana Vada With Arrowroot Powder for a complete meal experience.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe:
The cooking technique of wrapping chicken in banana leaves not only retains its juices but infuses it with a delicate fragrance. The spices used in the marinade create a bold, rich flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste, while the banana leaves offer an exotic touch. This dish is both aromatic and tender, making it a perfect choice for appetizers at any gathering. Plus, itβs high in protein, making it a healthy, non-vegetarian option for those looking to indulge in something flavorful yet nutritious.
Enjoy the delightful combination of Indian spices and the unique essence of banana leaves in this unforgettable appetizer!
