THIS Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish known for its creamy and rich tomato-based gravy. It is a delicious and flavorful dish that has a fascinating history and requires a combination of spices and ingredients to create its unique taste. Here’s a detailed overview of Butter Chicken, including its history, components, preparation steps, and approximate cooking time:

History:
Butter Chicken has its origins in northern India, particularly in the city of Delhi. It is believed to have been created in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi. The dish was created as a way to make use of leftover tandoori chicken, which was shredded and simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple in Indian cuisine, eventually spreading to restaurants and homes worldwide.

Components:
The key components of Butter Chicken include:

1. Chicken: Traditionally, boneless chicken pieces, often from tandoori chicken, are used.
2. Marinade: A mixture of yogurt, spices, and sometimes lemon juice or vinegar is used to marinate the chicken, giving it flavor and tenderness.
3. Tomato-Based Gravy: The rich and creamy tomato-based gravy is the heart of the dish. It includes ingredients like tomatoes, cream, butter, and various spices.
4. Spices: Common spices used in Butter Chicken include garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder.
5. Other Ingredients: Onions, garlic, ginger, and fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) are often used to enhance the flavor.

Steps to Prepare Butter Chicken:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Butter Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   • In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt.
   • Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well coated. Marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for the best results.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Grill or bake the marinated chicken until it’s partially cooked and has a nice char.

3. Prepare the Tomato-Based Gravy:

   • In a separate pan, melt butter and add finely chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
   • Add tomato puree, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Simmer until the gravy thickens and the butter starts to separate from it.
   • Add cream and simmer for a few more minutes.

4. Combine Chicken and Gravy:

   • Add the partially cooked chicken pieces to the tomato-based gravy.
   • Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If needed, you can add a little water.

5. Finish and Serve:

   • Sprinkle kasuri methi (fenugreek leaves) and garnish with fresh cream before serving.
   • Butter Chicken is typically served hot with naan, rice, or roti.

Cooking Time:
The total preparation and cooking time for Butter Chicken can vary but generally takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, including marination time. The marination process can be extended for several hours or overnight for even better flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Butter Chicken, a delightful dish with a rich history and an exquisite blend of flavors!

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Butter Chicken:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving.
• Protein: About 20-25 grams.
• Fat: Around 20-25 grams, primarily from butter and cream.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams, mainly from tomatoes and yogurt.
• Fiber: 1-2 grams.
• Sugar: 3-4 grams, naturally occurring in tomatoes and dairy.
• Sodium: Varies depending on the amount of salt used, but it’s typically around 800-1000 mg per serving.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Butter Chicken provides various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, calcium, and iron.

Health Information:

1. Protein Source: Butter Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

2. High in Fat: It’s important to note that Butter Chicken is high in saturated fat due to the use of butter and cream. While some fat is necessary in a balanced diet, it should be consumed in moderation, especially saturated fat.

3. Caloric Content: The dish is moderately calorie-dense, so portion control is important, especially for those watching their calorie intake.

4. Carbohydrates: Butter Chicken contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, mainly from the tomatoes and yogurt in the sauce.

5. Sodium: The sodium content can be high, primarily due to the use of salt and certain spice blends. People with high blood pressure or sodium sensitivity should be mindful of this.

6. Vitamins and Minerals: It provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A for vision health, vitamin C for immune support, and iron for energy production.

7. Balanced Diet: While Butter Chicken can be enjoyed occasionally as a treat, it should be part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients.

8. Modification: For a healthier version, you can consider using less butter and cream, or substituting them with alternatives like yogurt or coconut milk. Additionally, adding more vegetables can increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.

Remember that the nutritional content may vary slightly depending on the specific recipe and variations used in preparation. It’s always a good idea to be mindful of portion sizes and make adjustments to suit your dietary needs and preferences.