Calicut Payyoli Chicken Fry Recipe: A Delicious Kerala Specialty
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Kerala with this Calicut Payyoli Chicken Fry Recipe, a dish that beautifully combines the tangy, spicy, and aromatic tastes of South India. Perfect as an appetizer or a festive starter, this recipe brings together tender chicken pieces marinated and cooked with vibrant spices, fresh coconut, and curry leaves. Let’s dive into the detailed process of creating this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
Below is a detailed list of ingredients along with their approximate nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken (cut into 1-inch cubes) | 500 grams | 110 | 24 | 0 | 2 |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 teaspoon | 4 | 0.2 | 1 | 0 |
| Ginger (minced) | 1 teaspoon | 5 | 0.1 | 1 | 0.1 |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons | 12 | 0.4 | 2.5 | 0.2 |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 4 | 0 | 0.5 | 0.1 |
| Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Green Chilli (slit lengthwise) | 1 | 4 | 0.2 | 0.8 | 0 |
| Meat Masala | 1 tablespoon | 25 | 0.6 | 4 | 1 |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 3 tablespoons | 60 | 0.6 | 2.5 | 5.5 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Curry Leaves | 2 sprigs | 1 | 0 | 0.2 | 0 |
| Coconut Oil | 3 tablespoons | 360 | 0 | 0 | 40 |
| Water | 100 ml | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: ~148
- Protein: ~6.3g
- Carbohydrates: ~5.5g
- Fats: ~11.8g
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 people |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow this comprehensive guide to prepare Calicut Payyoli Chicken Fry like a pro.
Step 1: First Marination
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with:
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt (to taste)
Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken absorbs the base flavors.
Step 2: Second Marination
To the already marinated chicken, add:
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder
- 1 tablespoon meat masala powder
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Mix thoroughly, ensuring the spices are well distributed. Let this marinated mixture rest for 1 hour. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with the vibrant spice blend.
Step 3: Coconut Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder with 3 tablespoons grated fresh coconut. Keep this mixture aside for later use.
Step 4: Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 3 tablespoons of coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and a slit green chilli. Sauté on low flame, allowing the chicken to cook slowly. Stir occasionally to ensure even frying.
Step 5: Adding Coconut and Curry Leaves
- When the chicken is halfway cooked, add the coconut-chilli mixture and 2 sprigs of curry leaves.
- Pour in 100 ml water, cover, and let the chicken cook through. Stir occasionally until the water is fully absorbed.
Step 6: Fry to Perfection
Once the water evaporates, fry the chicken until it achieves a beautiful reddish-brown hue and the coconut turns crispy. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, tender, and coated with the spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Calicut Payyoli Chicken Fry hot as a delightful appetizer or starter at your house parties. It pairs wonderfully with a South Indian meal, such as:
- Steamed Rice
- South Indian Style Fish Curry
For a complete Kerala-inspired feast, complement the dish with banana chips and a refreshing coconut chutney.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Payyoli Chicken Fry
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Kashmiri red chilli powder to suit your preferred heat level. Kashmiri chilli powder is known for its vibrant color and mild spice, making it perfect for this dish.
- Oil Choice: Using coconut oil is essential for the authentic flavor of this recipe. Avoid substituting it with other oils.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh coconut and curry leaves for maximum flavor and aroma.
- Marination Time: If possible, extend the second marination to 2 hours for even better flavor absorption.
Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Seafood Alternative: Try this recipe with prawns or fish fillets for a coastal twist.
- Crunch Factor: Add roasted cashews or peanuts for extra texture.
Enjoy the irresistible Calicut Payyoli Chicken Fry, a true Kerala classic, and bring the essence of coastal India to your dining table. Happy cooking! 🍽️
