ചിക്കൻ മന്തി വീട്ടിൽ തയ്യാറാക്കാം | Chicken Mandi Recipe in Malayalam | Restaurant Style

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to prepare Chicken Mandi, a flavorful traditional dish that originated in Yemen and is now popular in many Arab countries. This recipe is adapted for stove-top cooking, making it easier to recreate at home. With its delightful combination of chicken, spices, and Sella Basmati rice, Chicken Mandi is sure to impress your family and friends.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

To get started, collect the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Mandi

• Sella Basmati Rice - 3 cups (600 gm)
• Chicken - 1.25 kg
• Ginger - 1 inch piece
• Garlic - 3 cloves
• Black Pepper - 2 + ½ teaspoons
• Cumin Seeds - 2 teaspoons
• Coriander Powder - 2 teaspoons
• Kashmiri Chilli Powder - 2 teaspoons
• Salt - 1½ + 3 teaspoons
• Cooking Oil - ½ cup (125 ml)
• Capsicum - 1 piece
• Onion - 1 medium-sized (100 gm)
• Water - 2 liters
• Chicken Stock Cube - 2 pieces
• Spices:
  • Cardamom - 8 pieces
  • Clove - 10 pieces
  • Cinnamon Stick - 4-inch piece
  • Bay Leaf - 2 pieces
  • Black Lime - 1 piece
  • Green Chilli - 4 pieces

For the Arabic Tomato Chutney

• Tomato - 2 pieces
• Green Chilli - 1 piece
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Coriander Leaves
• Cumin Seeds - 1 pinch
• Salt - ½ teaspoon
• Onion - 1 small-sized

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

1. Wash the Sella Basmati rice in plenty of water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps achieve a fluffy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Clean and cut the chicken into pieces.
2. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
4. Add ginger and garlic paste, stirring until fragrant.
5. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned.
6. Mix in black pepper, cumin seeds, coriander powder, Kashmiri chilli powder, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken with spices.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Pour in 2 liters of water and add the chicken stock cubes.
2. Add the whole spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, black lime, and green chillies).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken pieces and set aside.
2. Strain the broth to remove the whole spices and return the clear broth to the pot.
3. Add the soaked rice to the broth and adjust the salt if necessary.
4. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover the pot. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. In the last few minutes of rice cooking, place the reserved chicken pieces on top of the rice to steam together.
2. Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix the flavors.
3. Serve hot with Arabic tomato chutney on the side.

Conclusion

You have successfully made Chicken Mandi at home! This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be accompanied by various side dishes. Experiment with spices and adjust flavors to your liking. Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Mandi and share it with friends and family!