Dhaba style chicken keema


Dhaba style chicken keema



40 Mins
4-5 people
20 Mins




Introduction:

 

Hey there, it's Ajay Chopra welcoming you to my culinary corner! Today, I'm thrilled to share a recipe close to my heart, one that resonates with the rustic charm and bold flavors of India's roadside dhabas. But before we dive into the aromatic spices and savory goodness of this dish, let me take you back to a memorable encounter with this recipe. It was during one of my travels through the winding roads of rural India that I stumbled upon a small dhaba, its smoky aroma beckoning me from afar. Curious and hungry, I ventured in, only to be greeted by a steaming hot plate of chicken keema, bursting with flavors I'd never experienced before. That moment ignited a passion within me to recreate the magic of dhaba-style cooking in my own kitchen, and thus, the journey to perfecting this recipe began.

 

 

 

Recipe of Dhaba Style Chicken Keema

 

 

Ingredients:

 

  • Chicken breast boneless: 500 gms
  • Chicken thigh boneless: 500 gms
  • Oil: ⅓ cup
  • Bay leaf: 2 pcs
  • Onion, chopped: 3 cups
  • Salt: 1 tsp
  • Red chilli powder: ½ tbsp
  • Turmeric powder: ½ tbsp
  • Tomato puree: 1 ½ cup
  • Coriander powder: 1 tbsp
  • Roasted jeera powder: ½ tbsp
  • Water: as required
  • Kasoori methi: 1 tbsp
  • Coriander, chopped: 1 tbsp
  • Grinded masala: 1 tbsp
  • Ginger juliennes: 1 tbsp
  • Green chilli, slit: 1 tbsp
  • Butter: 1 tbsp

 

 

Keema Special Garam Masala:

 

  • Cinnamon: 1 inch
  • Green cardamom: 3 pcs
  • Black cardamom: 2 pcs
  • Star anise: 1 pc
  • Cloves: 8-10 pcs
  • Black pepper: 14-15 pcs
  • Jeera: ½ tbsp
  • Patthar ke phool: ½ tbsp

 

 

Method:

 

  1. Heat a pan, add cinnamon, green cardamom, black cardamom, star anise, cloves, black pepper, jeera, patthar ke phool, and lightly toast them.
  2. Remove on a plate and let it cool.
  3. Transfer it to a mixer jar and grind it to a fine powder. Keep it aside.
  4. Wash and clean chicken. Chop chicken thigh & chicken breast, keep them separated.
  5. Marinate with salt, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and set aside.
  6. Heat a pan, add oil, bay leaf, and let it crackle.
  7. Then add chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
  8. Add ginger & garlic paste, green chilli paste and cook.
  9. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, jeera powder, and sauté.
  10. Then add tomato puree and cook for 4-5 mins.
  11. Later add marinated chicken thigh chopped and sauté on medium-high flame.
  12. Add salt, some water and cook for 5-6 mins.
  13. Then add marinated chicken breast chopped and mix.
  14. Cover it with a lid and cook for 5-8 mins.
  15. Remove the cover, and cook until it turns into a thick gravy.
  16. Then add kasoori methi, grinded masala, and mix.
  17. Add ginger julienne, slit green chilli, chopped coriander and cook for a minute.
  18. Lastly, add butter and mix it.
  19. Serve this dhaba style chicken keema with hot buttered pav.

 

 

 

About the Recipe:

 

Indulge in the robust flavors of Dhaba Style Chicken Keema, a dish that encapsulates the essence of rustic Indian cuisine. Bursting with aromatic spices and tender chicken, this recipe brings the vibrant flavors of roadside dhabas straight to your dinner table. Inspired by the soulful cooking of India's countryside, this dish promises to transport your taste buds on a culinary adventure like no other. Whether enjoyed with piping hot parathas or fluffy naan, this chicken keema is sure to leave you craving for more.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

1. Toast the Spices:

Enhance the flavor profile of your chicken keema by toasting the spices before adding them to the dish. This simple step helps unlock the aromatic oils in the spices, elevating the overall taste.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients:

For the best results, opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients. Freshly ground spices, ripe tomatoes, and tender chicken will ensure a rich and flavorful keema that's bound to impress.

3. Adjust Spice Levels:

Tailor the spice levels of your chicken keema to suit your taste preferences. Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to achieve the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Pair your Dhaba Style Chicken Keema with a variety of accompaniments to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious pairing options to consider:

 

  • Parathas: Serve the chicken keema with flaky and buttery parathas for a classic combination that never disappoints.
  • Naan: Enjoy the rich flavors of the keema with soft and pillowy naan bread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of gravy.
  • Steamed Rice: For a lighter option, pair the chicken keema with fragrant steamed rice to complement the bold spices and savory flavors.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Dhaba Style Chicken Keema:

 

  1. What is Dhaba Style Chicken Keema?

    • Dhaba Style Chicken Keema is a flavorful Indian dish made with minced chicken and a blend of aromatic spices, inspired by the roadside eateries (dhabas) of India.

  2. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

    • While boneless chicken is typically used for keema, you can certainly use bone-in chicken for added flavor. Simply remove the bones before mincing the chicken.

  3. How spicy is Dhaba Style Chicken Keema?

    • The spice level can be adjusted according to personal preference. By controlling the amount of green chilies and red chili powder, you can customize the heat level to suit your taste.

  4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    • Yes, Dhaba Style Chicken Keema can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.

  5. What can I serve with Dhaba Style Chicken Keema?

    • This dish pairs well with a variety of Indian breads such as parathas, naan, or even steamed rice. It can also be enjoyed with roti or chapati.

  6. Is Dhaba Style Chicken Keema gluten-free?

    • Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. However, always check the labels of packaged spices to ensure they are gluten-free.

  7. Can I substitute ground chicken with another protein?

    • Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken with minced lamb, beef, or even turkey to create variations of this dish according to your preference.

  8. Is Dhaba Style Chicken Keema healthy?

    • While this dish is high in protein and packed with flavor, its overall healthiness depends on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Opt for lean chicken and limit the use of oil for a healthier version.

  9. Can I freeze Dhaba Style Chicken Keema?

    • Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken keema in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

  10. What makes Dhaba Style Chicken Keema unique?

    • The use of whole spices, slow cooking techniques, and bold flavors make Dhaba Style Chicken Keema a unique and unforgettable dish that captures the essence of traditional Indian cuisine.