Odia-style Tuzda Tavuk (Salt-Baked Chicken)

Ingredients

In this Odia adaptation of Tuzda Tavuk, we incorporate traditional Odia spices and herbs to infuse the chicken with the flavors of Odia cuisine. Additionally, the cooking technique involves encasing the marinated chicken in a salt crust, which is a departure from the original Turkish recipe. This method helps to create a tender and juicy chicken with a hint of saltiness. We alse have the original recipe for Tuzda tavuk, so you can check it out.

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs) 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons cumin powder 2 tablespoons cumin powder
• 2 tablespoons coriander powder 2 tablespoons coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon mustard oil 1 tablespoon mustard oil
• 2 cups (470 ml) rock salt 2 cups (470 ml) rock salt
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 0g, 0g
• Protein: 50g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 10g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, mix together cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, and mustard oil to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Rub the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavors.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Take a baking dish and spread a layer of rock salt at the bottom.
5. 5.
   Place the marinated chicken on top of the salt layer.
6. 6.
   Cover the chicken completely with the remaining rock salt, ensuring it is tightly sealed.
7. 7.
   Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
8. 8.
   Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
9. 9.
   Crack open the salt crust and carefully remove the chicken.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11. 11.
    Serve hot and enjoy the flavorful Odia-style Tuzda Tavuk.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mustard oil — If you cannot find mustard oil, you can substitute it with any other cooking oil of your choice. However, using mustard oil will add a distinct flavor to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken with the marinade to ensure maximum flavor.
• Letting the chicken marinate overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors.
• Ensure the salt crust is tightly sealed to prevent any moisture from escaping during baking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for doneness.
• Serve the Tuzda Tavuk with a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Odia-style Tuzda Tavuk as a main course dish with steamed rice or naan bread. Accompany it with a side of fresh salad or pickles to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Tuzda Tavuk on a platter, with the salt crust intact. Crack open the crust at the table to reveal the succulent chicken inside, creating a dramatic and enticing presentation.