Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Heat Oil and Ghee

   Add 3 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of ghee to a pan and heat it.

2. 2.Sizzle Whole Spices

   Add 3 cardamom pods, 2 cloves, a piece of cinnamon, and a bay leaf to the hot oil and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

3. 3.Sauté Onions

   Add 3 finely chopped medium onions to the pan. Sauté them until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally.

4. 4.Add Ginger Garlic Paste

   Add 2 teaspoons of ginger garlic paste to the sautéed onions and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.

5. 5.Prevent Burning

   Add a splash of water to the pan to prevent the onions and ginger-garlic paste from burning.

6. 6.Add Powdered Spices

   Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili, 1 teaspoon chicken masala, and salt to taste. Mix well.

7. 7.Cook Spices

   Add another splash of water to prevent the spices from burning and cook for a minute, stirring constantly.

8. 8.Add Tomatoes

   Add 1 medium (or 1/2 cup) chopped tomato to the spice mixture and mix well.

9. 9.Soften Tomatoes

   Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 5-8 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

10. 10.Mash Tomatoes

    Remove the lid and lightly mash the softened tomatoes with the back of your spoon to create a smooth gravy base.

11. 11.Add Chicken

    Add 500g of curry cut chicken pieces to the gravy and mix thoroughly to coat the chicken.

12. 12.Sear Chicken

    Fry the chicken on high heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it changes color.

13. 13.Add Water

    Pour in 1/2 cup of hot water, mix, and bring to a simmer.

14. 14.Cook Chicken

    Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring in between, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

15. 15.Add Yogurt

    Once the chicken is cooked, switch off the heat and add 2 tablespoons of whisked yogurt. Stir gently to combine.

16. 16.Add Garam Masala

    Switch the heat back on and add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala. Mix well.

17. 17.Garnish and Serve

    Add chopped coriander leaves and green chillies. Stir to combine. Your Chicken Masala is ready to serve.