Malvani Chicken Curry

Malvani Chicken Curry (Malvani Kombdi Masala)

Chicken (called kombdi in the Malvan region of Western India) cooked with roasted coconut and spices. A big hit with spicy food lovers.

Cooking time (approx.): 1 Hour
Style: Malvani (Maharashtrian) Non-Vegetarian
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 medium sized pieces (about 800 grams) of chicken
• 1 coconut(s) grated
• 4 onions chopped
• 1 teaspoon(s) red chilli powder
• ½ teaspoon(s) turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoon(s) hot spice mix (garam masala) powder
• 8 green chillies chopped
• 2 tablespoon(s) each of ginger and garlic pastes
• 2 tablespoon(s) oil
• salt to taste
• finely chopped coriander leaves for garnishing

Method:

• Grind half of the green chillies to a paste and mix it well with the ginger and garlic pastes. Make cuts on the chicken pieces, rub this mixture on to them well and marinate for about an hour at least.
  Roast coconut shavings in a little hot oil till light brown. Cool and grind along with half the onions to a paste.
• Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and saute the onions on medium level for about 2 minute(s) or till they are light brown in color.
• Add the remaining chopped green chillies, spice powders and fry for a few seconds. Add the marinated chicken pieces and fry on medium level for about 3 minutes or till they are lightly browned.
• Add the paste, salt and mix well. Add water according to the desired level of consistency and bring to a boil. Cover and cook on low level for about 25 minute(s) or till the chicken pieces are tender and fully cooked.
• Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves.

TIP:

If it is difficult to obtain fresh coconut, it can be replaced by desiccated coconut shavings. For this recipe, there is no need to soak it in warm water. Roast it directly.

Serve hot withwhite rice or Indian bread (Roti/Vade).