North Indian Style Chicken with Capers

Ingredients

In the original Italian dish, Pollo con Capperi, the chicken is typically cooked in a white wine and caper sauce. However, in this North Indian adaptation, the chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, and cooked in a tomato-based gravy infused with traditional Indian spices. The flavors are adjusted to suit the North Indian cuisine, resulting in a rich and tangy chicken curry. We alse have the original recipe for Pollo con capperi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces 500g (1.1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon capers 1 tablespoon capers
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
3. 3.
   Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates.
5. 5.
   Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. 6.
   Add garam masala and capers to the pan. Mix well.
7. 7.
   Cover the pan and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cleaned and pat dry before marinating to enhance the flavors.
• Yogurt — Use plain yogurt without any added flavors or sweeteners for the marinade.
• Capers — Rinse the capers under cold water to remove excess saltiness before adding them to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, simmer the dish uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Serve the dish with a side of raita (yogurt-based condiment) to balance the flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the North Indian Style Chicken with Capers hot with steamed rice or freshly baked naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the dish in a traditional Indian serving bowl or plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of garam masala and a few capers on top for an appealing visual touch.