Bold and Flavorful: Black Chicken Curry Recipe

Introduction: 

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the rich and aromatic flavors of black chicken curry. Originating from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu in South India, this dish is renowned for its distinctive dark color and intense blend of spices. Black chicken curry is a true culinary delight that promises a symphony of flavors with every bite. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create an unforgettable dining experience in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients:

500 grams chicken, preferably with bone, cut into pieces

2 onions, finely chopped

2 tomatoes, finely chopped

4-5 cloves of garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped

2 green chilies, slit

10-12 curry leaves

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon fennel seeds

2-3 dried red chilies

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

2 tablespoons coriander powder

1 tablespoon black pepper powder

1 tablespoon poppy seeds (khus khus)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

1/2 cup grated coconut

Salt to taste

3 tablespoons oil

Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

Dry roast poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and grated coconut separately until they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool, then grind them together into a fine paste using a little water. Set aside.

Heat oil in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and dried red chilies. Let them splutter and release their aroma.

Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Stir in minced garlic, chopped ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves. Cook for a few minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and turn mushy.

Now, add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and black pepper powder. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and coat them evenly with the masala mixture.

Pour in the ground paste of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and coconut. Mix well to combine.

Add salt to taste and enough water to cover the chicken pieces. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy thickens.

Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat.

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serve hot with steamed rice or traditional South Indian breads like appam or dosa.

Enjoy the bold and flavorful experience of black chicken curry, a dish that celebrates the vibrant culinary heritage of South India. With its aromatic spices and rich, dark gravy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.