A Taste of India: Unveiling the Exquisite Flavors of Chicken Korma

Chicken Korma is a classic Indian curry known for its rich, creamy texture and aromatic blend of spices. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a luscious sauce made from yogurt, coconut milk, and ground nuts, resulting in a flavorful and indulgent meal. Perfectly paired with steamed rice or naan, Chicken Korma is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit various spice preferences.

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Chicken Korma is a traditional dish with roots in Mughal cuisine. The term "korma" comes from the Urdu word "qorma," which means "braised." Historically, korma was prepared by slow-cooking meat in a mixture of yogurt and spices, a method that enhances the dish's flavor and tenderness. It has evolved over time, incorporating a variety of regional ingredients and techniques, making it a beloved and versatile dish in Indian cuisine.

Ingredients:

1- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces

2- 1 large onion, finely chopped

3- 1 tsp ginger paste

4- 1 tsp garlic paste

5- 1 tsp ground coriander

6- 1 tsp ground cumin

7- 1/2 tsp turmeric

8- 1/4 tsp cinnamon

9- 1/4 tsp ground cloves

10- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

11- 1 cup coconut milk

12- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

13- 1/2 cup cashews or almonds, ground into a fine powder

14- 2 tbsp ghee or oil

15- Salt and pepper to taste

16- Chopped cilantro for garnish

Method:

1. Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in the ginger and garlic paste and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.

4. Mix in the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, and cayenne pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.

5. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and ground nuts until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet and stir well.

7. Simmer the curry for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes:

- For a thicker sauce, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water during step 5.

- Substitute heavy cream for yogurt for an even creamier texture.

Nutrition Value:

1. 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces

  - Calories: 248 per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 31g

  - Fat: 3.6g

  - Sodium: 60mg

  - Cholesterol: 85mg

  - Vitamins: High in B vitamins, especially niacin and B6

  - Minerals: Good source of phosphorus and selenium

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. Low in fat, making it a healthier choice for maintaining body weight.

2. 1 large onion, finely chopped

  - Calories: 44 per medium onion (110g)

  - Carbohydrates: 10.4g

  - Protein: 1.2g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 4mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C and contains small amounts of vitamin B6 and folate

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, calcium, and magnesium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides antioxidants and supports immune function. Adds flavor with minimal calories.

3. 1 tsp ginger paste

  - Calories: 4 per tsp (6g)

  - Carbohydrates: 0.9g

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C

  - Minerals: Provides potassium and magnesium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Has anti-inflammatory properties and aids in digestion. Enhances flavor with minimal calories.

4. 1 tsp garlic paste

  - Calories: 4 per tsp (3g)

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and small amounts of B vitamins

  - Minerals: Provides manganese, calcium, and iron

  - Nutritional Benefit: Known for its potential cardiovascular benefits and immune-boosting properties.

5. 1 tsp ground coriander

  - Calories: 6 per tsp (2g)

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.3g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and some B vitamins

  - Minerals: Provides iron, magnesium, and calcium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Offers antioxidants and can help with digestion and blood sugar control.

6. 1 tsp ground cumin

  - Calories: 8 per tsp (2g)

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0.4g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamins A and C

  - Minerals: Provides iron, magnesium, and calcium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Supports digestion and has antioxidant properties.

7. 1/2 tsp turmeric

  - Calories: 4 per 1/2 tsp (1g)

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C

  - Minerals: Provides iron and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

8. 1/4 tsp cinnamon

  - Calories: 2 per 1/4 tsp (0.6g)

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K

  - Minerals: Provides calcium and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefit: Has antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

9. 1/4 tsp ground cloves

  - Calories: 2 per 1/4 tsp (0.5g)

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin K

  - Minerals: Provides manganese and calcium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Offers antioxidant properties and can aid in digestion.

10. 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

  - Calories: 6 per 1/4 tsp (0.5g)

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.3g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A and small amounts of vitamin C

  - Minerals: Provides potassium and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefit: Boosts metabolism and may aid in weight loss and pain relief.

11. 1 cup coconut milk

  - Calories: 445 per cup (240ml)

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Protein: 5g

  - Fat: 48g

  - Sodium: 15mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and some B vitamins

  - Minerals: Provides iron, magnesium, and potassium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in healthy fats and can support cardiovascular health.

12. 1/2 cup plain yogurt

  - Calories: 59 per 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 3.6g

  - Protein: 10g

  - Fat: 0.4g

  - Sodium: 36mg

  - Cholesterol: 10mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin B12 and riboflavin

  - Minerals: Provides calcium and phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of protein and probiotics, which support digestive health.

13. 1/2 cup cashews or almonds, ground into a fine powder

  - Calories: 290 per 100g (cashews)

  - Carbohydrates: 15g

  - Protein: 8g

  - Fat: 23g

  - Sodium: 10mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin E and small amounts of B vitamins

  - Minerals: Provides magnesium, copper, and iron

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals, supporting heart health and energy levels.

14. 2 tbsp ghee or oil

  - Calories: 224 per 2 tbsp (28g)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 28g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 68mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A

  - Minerals: Provides small amounts of calcium and potassium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides healthy fats and can aid in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

15. Salt and pepper to taste

  - Salt: 0 calories, sodium content varies based on amount used

  - Pepper: 6 calories per tsp

  - Carbohydrates: 1g (pepper)

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: High for salt

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Minimal amounts in pepper

  - Minerals: Salt provides sodium; pepper provides trace minerals

  - Nutritional Benefit: Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation. Pepper adds minimal calories and enhances taste.

16. Chopped cilantro for garnish

  - Calories: 1 per tbsp (2g)

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1g

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin K, contains vitamin C and A

  - Minerals: Provides calcium, potassium, and iron

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and freshness with minimal calories and provides beneficial vitamins and minerals.