Creamy Chicken Cashew Curry – A Delight for Ramzan 2024

Ramzan, also known as Ramadan, is the holy month in Islam. It’s a time for fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dish to enjoy for Iftar (the evening meal after breaking the fast), then this creamy chicken cashew curry is a perfect choice.

Ramzan is a deeply significant and multifaceted experience for Muslims. Ramzan is a time for personal growth, spiritual connection, and fostering a sense of community and compassion.

This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a rich and flavorful cashew sauce, making it a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s relatively simple to prepare, perfect for busy Ramadan evenings and provides a fulfilling protein source after a day of fasting.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup raw cashews
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking
• Cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1/2 cup yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional), 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste, and salt to taste. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the cashew paste: While the chicken marinates, soak the cashews in hot water for 15 minutes. Drain the cashews and grind them into a smooth paste with a little water in a blender or food processor.
3. Cook the onions: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add spices and ginger-garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and all the dry spices (coriander, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala). Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
5. Incorporate tomato paste and yogurt: Add the tomato paste and cook for a further minute. Then, stir in the remaining yogurt (1/2 cup) and cook until slightly thickened.
6. Add chicken and broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring to a simmer. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Stir in cashew paste: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the prepared cashew paste. Let the curry simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Season and garnish: Season the curry with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Also Read: വൺ പോട്ട് ചിക്കൻ റൈസ്

Can be served with:

Kappa (boiled tapioca)
Porotta (flaky flatbread)
Ghee rice

This is just one recipe idea for Ramzan Iftar. There are many other delicious dishes you can try. Enjoy this holy month with your loved ones!