Celebrating Pakistani Cuisine with Ginger Chicken
The vibrant flavors, dynamic textures, and colorful recipes of Pakistani cuisine are some of the most varied and flavorful in the world. One of the hallmark dishes often served with great fanfare for special occasions is Ginger Chicken, a comforting, curried-style chicken dish with a unique flavor that sets it apart from other dishes. Let’s take a look at this classic dish, explore why it’s such a hit in Pakistani cuisine, and even provide a recipe so you can savor the flavors of Pakistani culture at home.
Understanding the Spices
Ginger chicken is an aromatic blend of spiciness, tartness, and heat with a hint of sweetness. The success of the dish lies in its careful balance of spices and distinct ingredients. A combination of coriander, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin, cardamom, and turmeric form the base of the flavor, often accompanied by diced ginger for some extra zing. A dash of freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the final touch before serving.
Discovering the Texture
The meat should be tender and well-cooked in its own juices, making it incredibly juicy and flavory. Because the chicken is cooked on a low flame, the cooking process can take anywhere from an hour to two, depending on the type of meat used. The chicken is often cooked directly in the spices, giving it a full flavorful taste.
Serving and Enjoying
Ginger chicken is often served either with naan bread, or over steamed basmati rice. It can also be served with a side of potato, though that’s not a traditional accompaniment. A mint chutney or yogurt-based raita usually complements the dish. All that’s left is to pour yourself a chilled glass of lassi and enjoy!
Ginger Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup oil
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the oil, yogurt, cumin, ginger-garlic paste, chilli powder, coriander powder, garam masala, cardamom, turmeric, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix thoroughly. Cover the bowl with a lid and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least four hours.
3. Place a large pot over medium-high heat and add the chicken and its marinade. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Finally, reduce the heat and add the lemon juice. Cook for an additional 5 minutes and serve hot.
Ready to Savor the Flavor of Pakistan?
Pakistani cuisine is a beautiful blend of flavors, textures, and colors- and the dish of ginger chicken is a testament to that. Next time you’re looking for a unique and flavorful way to explore Pakistani culture and cuisine, take a look at this recipe, and let us know what you think!
