Bihari Style chicken
40 Mins
4-5 People
15 Mins
Introduction
Growing up in a Bihari household, I was surrounded by the rich culinary traditions of my culture. One dish that always stood out to me was Bihari Style Chicken, a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. The first time I tasted this dish was during a family gathering, where the aroma of spices filled the air and the tender chicken pieces melted in my mouth with every bite. It was a revelation, a perfect blend of flavors that captured the essence of Bihari cuisine. Since then, Bihari Style Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen, reminding me of the warmth and love of home every time I prepare it.
Recipe of Bihari Style Chicken
Ingredients:
- 500 gms chicken, curry cut
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- ½ cup mustard oil
- 1 inch cinnamon
- 2 bay leaves
- 6-7 black peppercorns
- 2 black cardamoms
- 3-4 green cardamoms
- 4-5 cloves
- 2 cups sliced onions
- 2 whole garlic cloves
- 3-4 green chilies
- 1 inch ginger
- 2 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala powder
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
Method:
- Wash and clean the chicken thoroughly, then transfer it to a bowl.
- Marinate the chicken with turmeric powder and salt. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium-high heat until it starts to smoke slightly. Allow it to cool for a moment.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and sauté on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until it gets a golden sear. Transfer the chicken to a separate bowl.
- In the same pan, add cinnamon, bay leaves, black peppercorns, black cardamoms, green cardamoms, and cloves. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
- Add whole garlic cloves and green chilies to the onions in the pan. Sauté for another minute.
- Crush ginger and green chilies into a paste using a mortar and pestle. Add this paste to the pan and sauté for a minute.
- Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the spices are fragrant.
- Return the partially cooked chicken to the pan and mix well with the spices and onions.
- Pour in a little water to create a flavorful gravy. Let the chicken simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Just before finishing, add chopped coriander leaves and garam masala powder. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Your Bihari Style Chicken is now ready to be served hot. Pair it with steamed rice or fresh Indian bread for a complete meal.
About the Recipe
Bihari Style Chicken is a traditional dish from the state of Bihar in India, known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. This dish typically features tender chicken pieces marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then slow-cooked to perfection. The key to its distinctive taste lies in the use of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, which infuse the chicken with layers of flavor. Whether served with rice, roti, or naan, Bihari Style Chicken is sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Indian cuisine.
Cooking Tips
- Marinate Overnight: For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the taste and aroma of the dish.
- Slow Cooking: Slow-cook the chicken on low heat to ensure that it becomes tender and juicy.
- Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the quantity of chili powder and other spices.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or mint leaves for added freshness and flavor.
Pairing Guide
- Rice: Serve Bihari Style Chicken with steamed rice for a classic and comforting meal.
- Roti or Naan: Pair the chicken with roti or naan bread for a delicious and satisfying dinner.
- Salad: Accompany the dish with a side salad of fresh greens and vegetables for a nutritious and balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bihari Style Chicken
- What is Bihari Style Chicken?
- Bihari Style Chicken is a traditional dish from the state of Bihar in India, known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients.
- What are the key ingredients in Bihari Style Chicken?
- The key ingredients in Bihari Style Chicken include chicken, yogurt, ginger, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
- How do you marinate Bihari Style Chicken?
- To marinate Bihari Style Chicken, mix yogurt, ginger, garlic, spices, and lemon juice in a bowl, then coat the chicken pieces with this mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces for Bihari Style Chicken if you prefer, although bone-in chicken will yield a juicier and more flavorful result.
- How long does it take to cook Bihari Style Chicken?
- Bihari Style Chicken is typically slow-cooked on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Can I make Bihari Style Chicken ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time, then cook it when ready to serve for added convenience.
- Is Bihari Style Chicken spicy?
- The level of spiciness in Bihari Style Chicken can be adjusted according to your preference by varying the amount of chili powder and other spices used in the recipe.
- What can I serve with Bihari Style Chicken?
- Bihari Style Chicken pairs well with rice, roti, naan, or even bread, along with a side of salad or vegetables.
- Can I freeze Bihari Style Chicken?
- Yes, you can freeze Bihari Style Chicken once it has been cooked, although it may alter the texture slightly upon reheating.
- Are there any variations of Bihari Style Chicken?
- Yes, you can customize Bihari Style Chicken by adding other ingredients such as potatoes, bell peppers, or peas to create different flavor profiles and textures.