Murgh Nawabi
A rich and creamy chicken curry, Murgh Nawabi is a regal dish often prepared for special occasions. It features tender chicken pieces simmered in a luxurious sauce made with yogurt, nuts, and aromatic spices, offering a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
🧂 Ingredients
- 700 g Chicken(cut into pieces)
- 2 cups Yogurt(thick, hung curd preferred)
- 100 ml Cream
- 8 whole Green chilies(deseeded and finely chopped)
- 2 tsp White pepper powder
- 4 tsp Ginger paste
- 4 tsp Garlic paste
- 60 ml Vinegar
- as required Butter(for basting)
- to taste Salt
- 100 g Cashew nuts(soaked and ground into a paste)
- 1 large Onions(finely sliced)
- 3 tbsp Ghee or oil
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Red chili powder
- 1 tsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 2 tbsp Tomato puree
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Marinate the chicken pieces with vinegar, chopped green chilies, white pepper powder, ginger paste, garlic paste, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
💡 Tip: For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 3 hours. - 2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the thick yogurt and cream until smooth.
💡 Tip: Ensure the yogurt is well-drained to avoid a watery sauce. - 3
Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- 4
Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- 5
Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is partially cooked.
- 6
Stir in the cashew paste and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- 7
Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for another 5 minutes until the oil starts to separate.
- 8
Pour in the yogurt-cream mixture and stir well. Lower the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
💡 Tip: Stir continuously to prevent the yogurt from curdling. - 9
Adjust salt to taste. If desired, baste with a little butter before serving.
💡 Tip: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if available.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use hung curd (yogurt strained through cheesecloth).
- ✓Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- ✓This dish pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of saffron for a more regal aroma and color.
- A few raisins can be added for a touch of sweetness.