Tasty Kerala Style Chicken Curry - Varutharacha Chicken Curry

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making a delicious Kerala-style chicken curry, known as Varutharacha Chicken Curry. With a rich blend of spices and coconut, this dish is perfect for pairing with rice or bread. Follow these steps to create a flavorful meal that showcases the traditional cooking style of Kerala.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather and prepare all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 1 kg
• Onion: 3 nos
• Green chilies: 2 nos
• Tomatoes: 2 nos
• Ginger: 1 piece
• Garlic: 8 to 9 cloves
• Curry leaves: 3 sprigs
• Grated coconut: 1 cup
• Red chili powder: 2 tbsp
• Coriander powder: 1 tbsp
• Turmeric powder: ½ tbsp
• Cardamom: 2 nos
• Cinnamon: 1 stick
• Cloves: 2 nos
• Pepper seeds: 1 tsp
• Fennel seeds: 1 tsp
• Salt: 1 to 2 tsp
• Oil: 2 to 3 tbsp

Practical Tip:

• Chop the onions, tomatoes, and green chilies beforehand to save time during cooking.

Step 2: Make the Roasted Coconut Masala

Create a flavorful base for the curry by roasting the spices and coconut.

1. Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil in a pan.
2. Add the following whole spices:
   • 2 cardamom pods
   • 1 stick of cinnamon
   • 2 cloves
   • 1 tsp pepper seeds
   • 1 tsp fennel seeds
3. Sauté the spices until fragrant.
4. Add 1 cup of grated coconut and continue to sauté until it turns golden brown.
5. Stir in:
   • 2 tbsp red chili powder
   • 1 tbsp coriander powder
   • ½ tbsp turmeric powder
6. Roast the mixture well and set it aside to cool.

Step 3: Grind the Masala

Prepare a smooth paste for the curry.

1. Transfer the cooled roasted coconut mixture to a blender.
2. Add a little water if necessary and blend until it forms a fine paste.
3. Set the coconut paste aside.
4. In a separate blender, grind 1 piece of ginger and 8 to 9 garlic cloves into a fine paste. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Base

Start building the base of your curry with onions and tomatoes.

1. In the same pan, heat oil and add 1 tsp fennel seeds, allowing them to crackle.
2. Add 3 chopped onions and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, 2 chopped green chilies, and 3 sprigs of curry leaves. Sauté well.
4. Add 2 chopped tomatoes and 1 to 2 tsp salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Mix the roasted masala with the onion-tomato base.

1. Add the ground coconut masala to the pan and mix thoroughly.
2. Pour in enough water to achieve your desired curry consistency.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Add the Chicken

Incorporate the chicken into the curry.

1. Add 1 kg of cleaned chicken pieces to the pan.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken with the curry sauce.
3. Cover the pan and cook until the chicken is tender, approximately 20-30 minutes.
4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Your Kerala-style Varutharacha Chicken Curry is now ready to be served! Pair it with steamed rice or roti for a complete meal. Enjoy this aromatic dish that captures the essence of traditional Kerala cooking. For more recipes and cooking tips, consider exploring additional resources or cooking channels. Happy cooking!