Maharashtrian Chicken Curry Recipe
The state of Maharashtra is located in the western region of India, and its capital is Mumbai. The cuisine of Maharashtra spans from mild to spicy, and this curry is made with the trademark coconut milk used in lots of Maharashtrian cooking.
- 2 1/4 lbs. 1 kg. chicken pieces of your choice, skin removed
- 2 large onions (cut into quarters)
- 3 tbsp. coconut powder or freshly grated coconut
- 1 tbsp. garlic paste
- 1 tbsp. ginger paste
- 2 tsp. coriander powder
- 1 tsp. cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
- 1 tsp. garam masala
- 3 tbsp. vegetable (canola or sunflower oil)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 green chillies (slit lengthwise (optional))
- 2 large potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch cubes)
- Salt to taste
- 2 large tomatoes (chopped fine)
- Place pieces of chicken in a large plastic bowl and set aside.
- Put the quartered onion, coconut powder, ginger, garlic pastes, and powdered spices into a food processor and grind into a smooth paste using small amounts of water if necessary.
- Heat the oil in a deep pan over a medium heat. Add the paste to the hot oil and fry until the oil begins to separate from the masala (spice-onion paste). Stir frequently to prevent the masala from burning. Now add the chicken and fry until pieces turn opaque white, about 8 minutes.
- Add coconut milk, green chilies (if using) and potatoes. Season with salt to taste. Stir well.
- Cook until the chicken and potatoes are done, about 15 minutes. This dish should have a medium-thick gravy; if it is too thick add a small amount of warm water and cook for a few minutes. If gravy is too thin, boil to thicken.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn heat off and gently spoon curry into a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves and serve with rice and a green salad or a simple vegetable side dish.
