Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Roast Spices

   Add 1 tbsp coriander seeds, 1/4 tbsp cumin seeds, 2 tbsp peppercorns, and 1/4 tbsp fennel seeds to a pan. Roast them until fragrant, stirring continuously.

2. 2.Grind Spices

   Transfer the roasted spices to a grinder and grind them into a medium coarse powder.

3. 3.Marinate Chicken

   In a bowl, add 1/2 kg chicken, 3/4 of the freshly ground masala, 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for 30 minutes.

4. 4.Prepare Tomato Paste

   In a separate bowl, combine 2 chopped tomatoes and 2 tbsp fried gram. Grind them into a smooth paste.

5. 5.Sauté Onions

   Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan. Add 1 cup finely chopped onion and fry until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally.

6. 6.Add Ginger Garlic Paste to Onions

   Add 1 tsp ginger garlic paste to the browned onions and continue frying for about 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

7. 7.Cook Tomato Paste and Dry Spices

   Add the prepared tomato paste to the pan. Then, add 1/8 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp chilli powder, and 2 tbsp coriander powder. Mix well and cook the mixture until the oil separates from the masala, indicating it's well cooked.

8. 8.Add Marinated Chicken

   Add the marinated chicken to the pan along with additional salt to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken pieces are fully coated with the masala.

9. 9.Cook Chicken

   Pour in 1.5 cups of water, stir, then cover the pan with a lid. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, approximately 15-20 minutes.

10. 10.Finish with Spices and Lemon

    Remove the lid. Add the remaining 1/4 of the freshly ground spice powder, a few sprigs of curry leaves, 1/8 tsp soya sauce, and a large squeeze of lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.

11. 11.Simmer to Thicken

    Continue to cook the gravy uncovered for 5 more minutes, allowing it to simmer and thicken to your desired consistency.

12. 12.Serve

    Once the gravy has reached the desired consistency, remove from heat and serve hot.