Chicken Kali Mirch

Chicken Kali Mirch, or Black Pepper Chicken, is a distinguished North Indian dish that celebrates the bold and aromatic flavors of black pepper. This dish combines the warmth of freshly ground black pepper with the tenderness of chicken, simmered in a creamy gravy, creating a delightfully spicy and comforting meal. Known for its simplicity and profound taste, Chicken Kali Mirch is a testament to the elegance of Indian cuisine, where a single spice can be the hero of a dish. The dish strikes a perfect balance between the heat of the black pepper and the richness of the gravy, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a bit of zest in their meals.

The allure of Chicken Kali Mirch lies in its versatility; it’s sophisticated enough for a special occasion yet simple enough for a weekday dinner. The key ingredient, black pepper, not only imparts a robust flavor but also offers numerous health benefits, making this dish a wholesome choice. It’s a culinary gem that showcases the power of spices in Indian cooking, where each bite brings a burst of flavors, leaving a lasting impression on your palate.

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (plus extra for garnishing)
• 1 cup yogurt, whisked
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Step-wise Process

1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, 1 tablespoon black pepper, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt. Keep it aside for at least 1 hour, preferably longer in the refrigerator.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, green cardamoms, and cinnamon stick. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic.
3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add the marinated chicken to the pan, along with turmeric and coriander powder. Cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook for 20-25 minutes, or until it is tender and the oil starts to separate from the gravy.
6. Stir in the fresh cream and adjust the seasoning, adding more black pepper if desired. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the gravy thickens.
7. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Time Required

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes (excluding marinating time)

Important Points

• The key to this dish is the use of freshly ground black pepper for its vibrant aroma and flavor. Pre-ground pepper will not provide the same depth of taste.
• Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your spice preference, but remember that the dish is meant to highlight this spice.
• Using fresh cream towards the end of cooking helps balance the heat from the pepper and adds a rich texture to the gravy.

How to Serve Chicken Kali Mirch

Serve Chicken Kali Mirch hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. The creamy, peppery gravy pairs beautifully with the softness of bread or the fluffiness of rice, making for a satisfying and complete meal.

Chicken Kali Mirch is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, embodying the essence of Indian cuisine where spices are used not just for their taste but also for their health benefits. This dish, with its perfect harmony of spice and creaminess, invites you to explore the subtleties of Indian cooking. It’s a comforting, warm, and utterly delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their life. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Kali Mirch is a dish that promises to impress and satisfy.

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