2poundschicken legs and thighs skinless, cut up into 12 pieces
For the tempering (optional but highly recommended)
1teaspoonwhole cumin
5dried red chilies
2sprigs curry leaves
For the garnish
1/2lemon for drizzling
cilantroleaves or chopped fine
roasted cumin powder or garam masala
Instructions
Blend the onion, green chili, garlic, cilantro, whole cumin, yogurt, almond butter and salt together till a thick sauce is formed and everything is thoroughly combined. Set aside.
In a pan, pour oil and saute the minced garlic on high heat for 30 seconds.
Add the chicken and saute the chicken till it gets nicely coated and changes color, about 2 minutes.
Add the hara masala and toss to evenly coat the chicken. Cover and leave to cook on low heat for about 20 minutes.
Uncover and on high heat dry out any excess water. Once the oil rises to the top and you get the consistency of the curry to your liking, turn off the heat.
Lastly, In a pan, on high heat, saute the curry leaves, whole cumin and dried red chilies for about a minute. Pour the tempered oil onto the chicken and cover the pan.
Let the chicken get infused by the tempered oil for about 2 minutes and then garnish enjoy!
Video
Notes
You can use a milder pepper like Jalapeno or a hotter one like Thai, but I find Serrano to be a good in-between.
If you only have Serrano and want it spicier, add a 1/2 or whole additional pepper.
The original recipe calls for peanut butter, but since my son is allergic to peanuts, I use almond butter here and even sometimes whole raw cashews.
If you do decide to use cashews, presoak 1/4 cup in some water for about 30 minutes before blending them with the rest of the ingredients.