It is fantastic to see the increase in availability of all types of food in our local towns and areas. While we in Northern Ireland have our own food culture, and rightly so, we should be very proud of it, we shouldn't miss out on some other cultures ways of using many of the same ingredients. While we are very used to seeing a Chinese influence in our eating, it is an Indian dish I want to share with you today.
I wasn't surprised to hear that the dish Chicken Tikka Masala is now one of the biggest selling chicken dishes of all time, which proves that, like this recipe of Creamy Chicken Malasa, such dishes have reached past the old realm of being available just for the lads coming home from a night out and have found their way to the family dining table and can be enjoyed by all.
Don't worry this recipe won't have you needing to have a pint of water sitting beside you - it's a dish that's full of flavour with a cooling creamy undertone and demonstrates just why such dishes can become a family favourite.
CREAMY CHICKEN MASALA
(serves 4 - ready in 40 mins)
INGREDIENTS
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
3cm piece fresh root ginger, peeled and chopped
2 garlic clove, chopped
1tsp mild chilli powder
2tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
juice of one lime
2tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion
1 red chilli
1tsp ground turmeric
284ml carton double cream
juice of one lemon
Basmati rice and Naan bread to serve
METHOD
1. Put the chicken, ginger, garlic, chilli powder, coriander, lime juice and one tablespoon of oil in a bowl. Stir, and set aside. Chop the onion and seed and chop the chilli.
2. Heat a large shallow pan. Tip in the chicken and marinade and fry for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a pan and fry the onion and chilli for 3-4 minutes until just soft. Add the turmeric and stir fry for one minute. Lower the heat, pour in the cream and simmer for 2-3 mintues.
4. Add the chicken and simmer for five minutes, or until cooked. Season and stir in the lemon juice. Serve with rice and naan bread.
