This Pepper Chicken Fry builds flavour in layers, starting with a slow-toasted spice mix, moving into a coconut-rich paste, and finishing with a pepper-heavy gravy that clings to every piece of chicken. The tamarind cuts through the heat, giving the dish a festive balance ideal for Christmas spreads or winter dinners.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
400 gLeg boneless chicken, cut into 1-inch cubes (Chicken)
Heat oil in a non-stick pan and add the caraway seeds, peppercorns, star anise, cardamoms, cinnamon, cloves and coriander seeds. Let them warm gently so the aroma lifts without burning. Add curry leaves, garlic, ginger, and onion. Cook till the onion softens, and everything smells warm and nutty.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Build the paste
Add the scraped coconut to the pan and sauté till the raw scent fades. Sprinkle in the deghi chilli powder, turmeric, and coriander powder. Keep the flame steady so the spices bloom evenly. Remove from heat, cool the mixture slightly, and blend it with enough water to get a smooth paste.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Start the gravy base
Heat oil again and drop in broken dry red chillies and curry leaves. They will sputter as the oils release. Add sliced onions and cook till they reach a deep golden tone. This step builds the base and adds sweetness to balance the pepper-forward flavour later.
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Step 4: Sear the chicken
Slide in the chicken pieces and raise the heat. Sauté till the pieces firm up and turn lightly golden at the edges. Add ginger and garlic pastes and let them coat the chicken. This sear locks juices in and prepares the chicken to absorb the masala paste.
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Step 5: Combine masala and simmer
Add the freshly blended paste to the pan and mix thoroughly. Stir in red chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, crushed peppers, and salt. Cover and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally so the masala doesn’t stick. The gravy will thicken, and the chicken will cook through evenly.
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Step 6: Finish with tamarind
Fold in the chopped coriander and tamarind pulp. The tang will sharpen the pepper notes and round off the richness of the coconut. Let it simmer briefly so everything comes together before taking it off the heat.
Description - Step 7
Step 7: Serve hot
Transfer the chicken fries to a serving dish. Scatter a coriander sprig on top. The masala should cling to the chicken in a thick coat, with pepper and coconut well balanced.