Best Afghan Style Chicken Murgh Recipes

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AFGHAN - STYLE CHICKEN (MURGH)



Afghan - Style Chicken (Murgh) image

This is a recipe that is in the BBQ Bible by Steven Raichlen that he says "despite the name, this recipe comes from India, not Afghanistan. It's the specialty of New Delhi's famous Karim restaurant." Note: Make sure to allow 4-6 hours to strain yogurt and 4-6 hours to marinade the chicken.

Provided by diner524

Categories     Chicken Thigh & Leg

Time 35m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 cups plain yogurt
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
1 small onion, minced
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2-1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (suit it to your tastes for spice or heat)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon cumin seed, toasted
6 chicken legs (get skinless if available)
6 chicken thighs (get skinless if available)

Steps:

  • 1. Set a yogurt strainer, or regular strainer lined with a double layer of dampened cheesecloth, over a bowl. Add the yogurt to the strainer and let drain, in the refrigerator, for 4 to 6 hours.
  • 2. Remove the drained yogurt from the refrigerator (it will be quite thick) and discard the liquid. Transfer the yogurt to a large nonreactive bowl. Add the garlic, ginger, onion, lemon juice, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and cumin seeds and whisk to blend. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.
  • 3. Remove and discard the skin from the chicken pieces, then rinse the pieces under cold running water. Drain and blot dry with paper towels. Make 2 or 3 deep slashes, to the bone, in each piece. Add the chicken to the marinade in the bowl and turn the pieces to coat. Cover and let marinate, in the refrigerator, for 4 to 6 hours.
  • 4. Preheat the grill to high. (Note: For best results, use charcoal.).
  • 5. When ready to grill, oil the grill grate. Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange on the hot grate. Grill, turning with tongs, until nicely browned on the outside and the juices run clear when the tip of a skewer or sharp knife is inserted in the thickest part of a drumstick or thigh, 8 to 10 minutes per side (16 to 20 minutes in all).
  • 6. Transfer the chicken to serving plates or a platter and serve immediately, garnished with onion, tomato, cucumber, and radish slices and lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 601.4, Fat 38.8, SaturatedFat 12.3, Cholesterol 233.5, Sodium 1037, Carbohydrate 9.3, Fiber 0.6, Sugar 6.5, Protein 51.3

AFGHAN-STYLE CHICKEN / MURGH



Afghan-Style Chicken / Murgh image

Number Of Ingredients 17

FOR THE CHICKEN AND MARINADE:
3 cups plain yogurt, whole-milk
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons ginger, fresh, grated
1 onion, small, minced
3 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh
1/2 to 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted
6 chicken legs (2 to 2 1/2 pounds total) cut into drumsticks and thigh sections
FOR THE GARNISH:
red onion, sliced
tomato, sliced
cucumber, sliced
radish, sliced
lemon wedges

Steps:

  • 1. Set a yogurt strainer, or regular strainer lined with a double layer of dampened cheesecloth, over a bowl. Add the yogurt to the strainer and let drain, in the refrigerator, for 4 to 6 hours.2. Remove the drained yogurt from the refrigerator (it will be quite thick) and discard the liquid. Transfer the yogurt to a large nonreactive bowl. Add the garlic, ginger, onion, lemon juice, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and cumin seeds and whisk to blend. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.3. Remove and discard the skin from the chicken pieces, then rinse the pieces under cold running water. Drain and blot dry with paper towels. Make 2 or 3 deep slashes, to the bone, in each piece. Add the chicken to the marinade in the bowl and turn the pieces to coat. Cover and let marinate, in the refrigerator, for 4 to 6 hours.4. Preheat the grill to high (see Note).5. When ready to grill, oil the grill grate. Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange on the hot grate. Grill, turning with tongs, until nicely browned on the outside and the juices run clear when the tip of a skewer or sharp knife is inserted in the thickest part of a drumstick or thigh, 8 to 10 minutes per side (16 to 20 minutes in all).6. Transfer the chicken to serving plates or a platter and serve immediately, garnished with onion, tomato, cucumber, and radish slices and lemon wedges.Serves 6Note: For best results, use charcoal.

Nutrition Facts : Nutritional Facts Serves

Afghan Style Chicken Murgh Recipes: A Flavorful Journey through the Afghan Cuisine

Afghan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combination of spices. With a rich history and diverse cultural influences, Afghan cuisine has become an exciting culinary experience for food enthusiasts around the world. One of the most popular dishes in Afghan cuisine is the Chicken Murgh, a succulent chicken dish that is simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce. In this article, we will explore the history of Afghan cuisine, the importance of spices in the cuisine, and the different variations of the Afghan style Chicken Murgh recipes.
The History of Afghan Cuisine
Afghanistan has a rich cultural history that has been shaped by its location as a crossroad between Asia and the Middle East. The cuisine of Afghanistan has been influenced by various cultures, including Persia, India, and Central Asia. However, what makes Afghan cuisine unique is the blend of these different flavors that have been adapted to the taste of the locals. Afghan cuisine is also known for its use of high-quality ingredients, such as lamb, chicken, herbs, and spices. Due to the country's geographic location, vegetables and fruits are primarily grown in the central region of Afghanistan, which includes Kabul, Bamiyan, and Parwan provinces. This has led to the creation of dishes that feature simple ingredients that are cooked in a way that brings out their natural flavor.
The Importance of Spices in Afghan Cuisine
Spices play a significant role in Afghan cuisine, with the most popular ones being cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom. These spices are used to add depth, aroma, and flavor to the dishes. The use of spices in Afghan cuisine dates back to ancient times, and it is believed that Afghan traders brought spices from India and the Middle East to Central Asia. Over time, Afghan cooks have adapted these spices to their cuisine, creating unique blends that suit their palate.
The Variations of Afghan Style Chicken Murgh Recipes
The Afghan Style Chicken Murgh recipe is one of the most popular dishes in Afghan cuisine. It is a dish that is packed with flavor, and each region in Afghanistan has its own variation of the recipe. Here are some of the most popular Afghan Style Chicken Murgh recipes: 1. Korma Chicken Murgh – This is one of the most popular Afghan Style Chicken Murgh recipes. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices overnight, then simmered in a creamy sauce. 2. Spicy Chicken Murgh – This is a spicy variation of the Chicken Murgh recipe. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and chilies, then grilled to perfection. 3. Qorma-e-Sabzi Chicken Murgh – This is a variation of the Chicken Murgh recipe that uses fresh herbs such as spinach, coriander, and cilantro. The chicken is cooked in a rich broth that is made with onions, garlic, and spices. 4. Chaplee Kabab Chicken Murgh – This is a popular street food in Afghanistan. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of spices and grilled on skewers. It is usually served with naan and chutney. Conclusion: Afghan cuisine is a journey through flavors and spices that offer a unique culinary experience. The Afghan style Chicken Murgh is a perfect example of the distinctive blend of flavors that the cuisine offers. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy flavor, there is a variation of the Chicken Murgh recipe that suits your palate. By incorporating the right blend of spices and high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy an authentic Afghan-style Chicken Murgh that will tantalize your taste buds.

Valuable Tips When Making Afghan Style Chicken Murgh Recipes

Afghan style chicken Murgh is a famous delicacy in the Afghan cuisine that is enjoyed by many worldwide. Its sumptuous spicy flavor makes it stand out from other chicken recipes. However, this dish may be quite challenging to make, especially for people who have never had any experience cooking an authentic Afghan cuisine. Here are some valuable tips that will help you prepare a mouth-watering Afghan style chicken Murgh recipe:
1. Choose Fresh Ingredients
The quality of your dish highly depends on the quality of the ingredients you choose. When preparing Afghan style chicken Murgh, ensure that you use fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices. If possible, purchase organic vegetables as they are the best option. The same applies to the chicken. It is always a good idea to buy fresh chicken, preferably from a local farm or local butcher.
2. Marinate the Chicken Overnight
For the perfect flavor in your chicken, it is best to marinate it overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the richer the flavor. To prepare the marinade, mix yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, turmeric, coriander, and chili powder in a large bowl. Add the chicken to the mixture and make sure that it is coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap then refrigerate it overnight.
3. Cut the Vegetables into Small Pieces
When preparing Afghan style chicken Murgh, it is best to cut the vegetables into small pieces. This will ensure that the vegetables cook evenly, and the flavors are well distributed throughout the entire dish. Small pieces of vegetables also add texture and color to the dish.
4. Use a Heavy Bottom Pan
A heavy bottom pan is essential when preparing this dish. This is because it helps in distributing heat evenly hence avoiding burning of the ingredients. You can use a cast-iron skillet or a Dutch pan.
5. Cook at a Low Heat
When preparing Afghan style chicken Murgh, it is best to cook it at low heat. This helps to tenderize the chicken, and also the flavors are well distributed. Also, when cooking at low heat, the spices have time to develop and release their flavors, which makes the dish even more delicious.
6. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
It is important to avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking Afghan style chicken Murgh. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking of the chicken and vegetables, leading to the soggy and unappetizing result.
7. Stir Frequently
Frequent stirring helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan and burning. It also ensures that the vegetables are evenly cooked.
8. Adjust the Spices to Suit Your Taste
Afghan style chicken Murgh is a spicy dish. However, the level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer your food mild, use fewer chili peppers, and if you prefer spicier food, use more chili peppers. Taste the dish as you cook it and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
9. Serve with Fresh Herbs and Naan Bread
To enhance the flavor of Afghan style chicken Murgh, it is best to serve it with fresh herbs such as coriander or mint. Also, serve it with naan bread or rice to complement the dish.
10. Store Properly
If you have any leftovers, it is best to store them properly to prevent spoilage. Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. In conclusion, preparing Afghan style chicken Murgh can be a daunting task, but with the above tips, you can make a delicious and satisfying meal. Remember to choose fresh ingredients, marinate the chicken overnight, cut the vegetables into small pieces, use a heavy bottom pan, cook at low heat, don’t overcrowd the pan, stir frequently, adjust the spices to suit your taste, serve with fresh herbs and naan bread, and store properly. By following these tips, you can make a hearty and savory Afghan style chicken Murgh recipe that will leave your family and friends wanting more.

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