Delicious Pakistani Style Chicken Korma: A Tomato-Free Indian Curry

If you are looking for an Indian curry recipe that can cater to preferences or dietary needs that exclude the use of tomatoes, then Pakistani Style Chicken Korma is an excellent choice. It is rich, flavorful, and perfectly complements the tender pieces of chicken with a creamy yet distinctively aromatic sauce. This dish is not only a hit at home but also a surprising and delightful surprise for curry lovers who are looking for alternatives to traditional tomato-based curries.

Key Ingredients for a Tomato-Free Pakistani Style Chicken Korma

Fried Onions: The primary base that gives the dish its unique flavor profile. Yogurt: Used in conjunction with the onions to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Almond or Cashew Powder: These help in thickening the sauce without altering the flavor. Chicken: High-quality, boneless, and preferably tender pieces of chicken. Spices: Garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and cardamom for depth and complexity. Ghee (Clarified Butter): Used for cooking to enhance the flavor. Vegetables: Like carrots and peas, to add a touch of sweetness and texture.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prepare Pakistani Style Chicken Korma

The beauty of Pakistani Style Chicken Korma lies in its simplicity and the layers of flavors it offers. Here is a straightforward guide on how to prepare it without using tomatoes.

Step 1: Preparation of the Base Sauce

Start by making your fried onions. In a large pan, heat a generous amount of ghee. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Ensure to keep the heat medium to low to avoid burning. Add a pinch of cumin seeds to the onions and let them sizzle for a minute. This step helps in infusing the onions with aromatic spices. Add a dollop of yogurt and mix well until the mixture thickens slightly. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. Pour in the almond or cashew powder gradually, stirring continuously to blend the mixture smoothly. This will help in thickening the sauce and providing a creamy texture. Season with garam masala, turmeric, and cardamom to taste. These spices will provide a rich, aromatic flavor to the sauce.

Step 2: Incorporating the Chicken and Final Touches

Place the chicken pieces in a large pot or pan. Pour in the base sauce you prepared in the previous step. Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated. Add enough water to just cover the chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir in chopped carrots and peas to give the dish a boost of color and nutrients. Let them cook for another 5-10 minutes until tender. Adjust the seasoning if needed. It is crucial to taste the dish and make any necessary adjustments to the spiciness, saltiness, or sweetness.

Step 3: Serve

Once everything is well combined and the flavors have melded together, it's time to serve. You can serve this delicious Pakistani Style Chicken Korma with basmati rice, naan, or any other preferred accompaniment. garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of ghee to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Conclusion and Additional Tips

Preparing Pakistani Style Chicken Korma is not only straightforward, but it's also a fun culinary experience. The combination of fried onions, yogurt, and nuts creates a creamy and aromatic sauce that complements the tender chicken beautifully. This dish stands out as an excellent alternative to traditional tomato-based curries, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions or simply those who enjoy new and unique flavors.

To perfect your Chicken Korma, here are a few additional tips:

Pick Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of the dish. Use Ghee: It enhances both the flavor and the aroma of the dish. Avoid Overcooking: Let the chicken cook through but be careful not to overcook it, which could make it dry. Taste and Adjust: It's crucial to taste the dish and adjust the spices accordingly to ensure it meets your taste preferences.

Additional Resources

If you want to see how a traditional version of this dish is made, there are many excellent videos available. While some will be in Urdu with English subtitles, it's still very easy to follow the instructions. A quick online search will yield many results, including voiceover tutorials that walk you through the process step by step.

Enjoy your Pakistani Style Chicken Korma, and don't hesitate to share it with friends and family. It's sure to become a new favorite dish in your household!