Lahori Murgh Recipe
A Taste of Lahore
The culinary heritage of Lahore is rich and diverse, offering a plethora of flavorful and aromatic dishes. Lahori Murgh, which translates to "Chicken from Lahore," is a celebrated dish that exemplifies this heritage. Traditionally, this dish combines the sumptuous flavors of various spices native to the region. Whether enjoyed during festive occasions or prepared for a family meal, Lahori Murgh represents the heart of Lahori cuisine—sumptuous, spicy, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
To prepare authentic Lahori Murgh, ensure you have the following ingredients at your disposal:
- Chicken - 1 whole, cut into pieces
- Yogurt - 1 cup
- Onion - 2 large, finely sliced
- Ginger - 1 tablespoon, minced
- Garlic - 1 tablespoon, minced
- Tomato - 2 medium, chopped
- Red Chili Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric - 1 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder - 2 teaspoons
- Garam Masala - 1 teaspoon
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Oil - 3 tablespoons
- Fresh Coriander - for garnish
- Fresh Lime - for garnish
Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it's crucial to prepare the ingredients to ensure a smooth experience:
Marinating the Chicken
Start by cleaning the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger, garlic, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Preparing Other Ingredients
As the chicken marinate, finely slice the onion and chop the tomatoes. Keep these ingredients aside until needed for the cooking process.
Cooking Process
Cooking Lahori Murgh requires patience and precision. Follow these steps meticulously to ensure the best results:
Step 1: Frying the Onions
In a large pot or pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown. This process will take about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.
Step 2: Adding Tomatoes and Spices
Once the onions are golden brown, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir well and allow them to cook until they start to break down and form a thick paste. Add the remaining cumin, garam masala, and adjust salt as needed. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the spices blend well with the paste.
Step 3: Cooking the Marinated Chicken
Reduce the heat to medium and gently add the marinated chicken pieces into the pan. Stir well to ensure that each piece is coated with the onion-tomato paste. Cover the pan and let the chicken cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the chicken is cooked, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Turn off the heat and add fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Lahori Murgh is best enjoyed with freshly made naan or steamed basmati rice. To enhance your dining experience, consider serving it with a side of pickles and a simple salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, lightly seasoned with salt and lemon juice.
This delightful dish, with its perfect balance of spices and flavors, is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it. Enjoy the authentic taste of Lahore right at your dining table!