The Indian Apple Chicken Recipe is a fusion of Indian spices and cooking techniques with the unique addition of apples, creating a delightful blend of flavours. It is one of our favourite recipes at home.
Indian cuisine has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. It is characterised by a wide variety of regional dishes, each with its own unique blend of spices, herbs, and cooking methods. Traditional Indian recipes are often influenced by the availability of ingredients in different regions, as well as cultural, religious, and historical factors.
In this blog, I can provide some context on the culinary evolution of Indian cuisine. Apples, not native to India, were likely introduced through trade routes and colonial influences. The incorporation of apples into Indian dishes, including savoury recipes like chicken curry, could be considered a modern adaptation that reflects the global exchange of culinary ideas.
Indian cuisine itself has a long tradition of combining sweet and savoury flavours, and the addition of fruits to meat-based dishes is not uncommon. Dishes like “Murgh Malaiwala“ (Chicken in Creamy Sauce) and “Murgh Badami” (Almond Chicken) showcase the Indian penchant for blending diverse ingredients to create harmonious and flavorful meals.
The specific Indian Apple Chicken Recipe may have been developed by home cooks or chefs experimenting with ingredients to create a dish that balances the sweetness of apples with the savoury and aromatic spices of Indian cuisine.
As culinary traditions continue to evolve, chefs and home cooks around the world experiment with ingredients, creating new and innovative recipes that reflect the dynamic nature of global cuisine. The Indian Apple Chicken recipe is a testament to this ongoing culinary exploration, bringing together the best of Indian and global flavours.
Here’s a simple and flavorful Indian Apple Chicken recipe:
Ingredients:
For Marinating Chicken:
- 500 gm chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yoghurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
For the Curry:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and grated
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, mix together yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or pot over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add Spices:
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and garam masala. Cook the spices for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Tomato Puree:
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- Cooking the Chicken:
- Add the marinated chicken pieces along with the marinade. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Apples:
- Add grated apples to the chicken curry and mix well.
- Simmer:
- Cover the pan and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and the apples are tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust salt and spice levels according to your preference.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve:
- This delectable dish pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or even a warm paratha. The combination of textures and flavours makes it a versatile centrepiece for family dinners, festive occasions, or intimate gatherings.
The Indian Apple Chicken recipe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of culinary diversity and the spirit of experimentation. As we savour each bite, we are reminded that the beauty of Indian cuisine lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. So, gather your ingredients, embark on a flavorful journey, and let the aromas of Indian spices and apples transport you to a world where tradition and innovation coalesce in a delightful dance on your plate.
Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Indian Apple Chicken Curry!