Contents
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1. Introduction
Chicken Karahi is a popular and flavorful dish in South Asian cuisine, known for its rich, tangy, and aromatic taste. Traditionally, it’s cooked with oil or ghee, but this oil-free chicken karahi recipe in Pakistani style version is perfect for those who are health-conscious. In this recipe, we will use minimal water instead of oil to ensure the chicken remains tender and flavorful without compromising on taste. The use of fresh spices and herbs adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Let’s dive into this oil-free chicken karahi recipe that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt!
2. Ingredients
1 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
1 onion (grind it after browning)
2 tablespoons garlic paste
2 tablespoons ginger paste
4-5 tomatoes (blended)
4 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon vinegar
½ tablespoon soy sauce
½ tablespoon chili sauce
1 ½ tablespoons ground ajwain (carom seeds) and crushed anardana (pomegranate seeds)
2 green chilies (paste)
½ tablespoon red chili powder
½ tablespoon black pepper powder
½ tablespoon crushed red chilies (moti mirch)
2 tablespoons yogurt
Salt (to taste)
½ tablespoon garam masala
½ tablespoon ground coriander (sokha dhania)
½ tablespoon cumin seeds (zeera)
½ tablespoon tandoori masala
Fresh coriander and mint for garnish
Lemon slices and green chilies for garnish
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3. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix the following ingredients: browned and ground onion, garlic paste, ginger paste, blended tomatoes, lemon juice, vinegar, soy sauce, chili sauce, ajwain and anardana, green chili paste, red chili powder, black pepper, crushed red chilies, yogurt, salt, garam masala, coriander powder, cumin seeds, and tandoori masala.
Add the
pieces to the mixture and coat them thoroughly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 2-3 hours. If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
In a non-stick pan, add a small amount of water (just enough to prevent the chicken from sticking).
Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook on low heat.
Stir the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from sticking to the pan. Since this is an oil-free recipe, the water will help create a tender and moist texture.
Continue cooking until the chicken is fully done. Avoid adding too much water, as the chicken will release its own juices during cooking.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the water has reduced, turn off the heat.
Garnish with lemon slices, fresh green chilies, coriander, and mint leaves.
Serve with dahi (yogurt) salad or mint chutney.
4. Cooking Tips
Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the flavor. Aim for at least 2-3 hours for best results.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili paste and crushed red chilies based on your preferred spice level.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs like coriander and mint enhances the flavor and adds freshness to the dish.
Minimal Water: Be careful not to add too much water during cooking, as chicken naturally releases its own moisture.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve this oil-free chicken karahi with:
Whole wheat chapati or naan for a healthier option
Basmati rice or pulao
A side of fresh cucumber and onion salad
Raita or mint chutney for extra flavor
6. Conclusion
This oil-free chicken karahi recipe proves that you don’t need to rely on oil to create a delicious and flavorful dish. With the right blend of spices and herbs, you can enjoy the rich taste of traditional chicken karahi without compromising on health. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this dish will leave everyone asking for more. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, boneless chicken works well and will cook faster. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicy?
A: Absolutely! To increase the spice level, you can add more green chili paste or red chili powder.
Q: What can I use instead of yogurt?
A: If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with cream or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken karahi for up to 1 month. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Q: How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?
A: A non-stick pan and stirring frequently will help prevent sticking, along with adding a small amount of water at the start.