If you’ve been following the first season of Come Dine With Me South Africa, you’ve probably been wowed by the culinary skills of the contestants. One dish that particularly caught our eye was Estie’s delectable chicken korma. This classic Indian dish, with its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, is a true delight.
What is Chicken Korma?
Chicken korma is a mild, creamy Indian curry that originates from the Mughal era. It’s characterized by its rich, aromatic sauce made with yogurt, cream, and a blend of warm spices. The chicken is typically marinated in yogurt and spices before being cooked in the creamy sauce.
Estie Matheus’s Chicken Korma
While the exact recipe for Estie’s korma remains a mystery, we can glean some valuable insights from the show. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved in making this dish:
Chicken Korma Ingredients:
- Chicken
- Yogurt
- Coconut cream
- Cardamom seeds
- Crushed chili peppers
- Ground cinnamon
- Coriander powder and seeds
- Onions
- Sauce (likely a blend of yogurt, cream, and spices)
Chicken Korma Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
Marinate the chicken in a mixture of yogurt and coconut cream. This tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.
Prepare the Spices:
Crush cardamom seeds, chili peppers, and coriander seeds in a plastic bag. This releases the aromatic oils and enhances the flavor of the dish.
Sauté the Onions:
Sauté onions until golden brown. This forms the base of the sauce and adds sweetness to the dish.
Cook the Chicken:
Add the marinated chicken and crushed spices to the pot with the onions. Cook until the chicken is tender and the spices are fragrant.
Add the Sauce:
Pour the creamy sauce over the simmering chicken. Allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
Tips on How to Make Chicken Korma:
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of your dish.
Balance the Spices: While korma is a mild dish, the right balance of spices is crucial. Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your desired level of heat.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook it until it’s tender but still juicy.
Serve with Rice or Naan: Traditionally, korma is served with basmati rice or naan.
By following these steps and tips, you can recreate Estie Matheus’s delicious chicken korma at home.