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Authentic Chicken Saagwala Recipe - A Flavorful Punjabian Delight

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Chicken Saagwala is a beloved dish hailing from the vibrant state of Punjab in northern India. Known for its rich and hearty flavors, this dish combines tender pieces of chicken with a luscious spinach-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. In Punjabi households, Chicken Saagwala is often prepared during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and togetherness.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Chicken (Murgh)
  • Spinach (Palak)
  • Ghee (Clarified Butter)
  • Onion (Pyaz)
  • Tomatoes (Tamatar)
  • Ginger (Adrak)
  • Garlic (Lehsun)
  • Green Chilies (Hari Mirch)

✨ What Makes It Special

Chicken Saagwala showcases regional variations in Indian cuisine, with each household adding its unique touch to the recipe. While some regions prefer a creamier texture by incorporating cream or yogurt, others emphasize the earthy flavors of spinach and spices without additional dairy.

📝 Ingredients

  • 500g chicken, cut into pieces
  • 300g spinach, blanched and pureed
  • 2 tbsp ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • Salt to taste

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Stir in grated ginger, minced garlic, and green chilies.
  4. Add the spice blend - coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for a minute.
  5. Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the ghee separates.
  6. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are sealed.
  7. Pour in the spinach puree and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
  8. Adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed.
  9. Serve hot with roti or steamed rice.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 30 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Chicken Saagwala pairs beautifully with warm, freshly made rotis or steamed basmati rice. Garnish with a dollop of fresh cream or a sprinkle of chopped coriander leaves for a delightful finish.

💭 Chef's Notes

For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of cream or yogurt towards the end of cooking. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, keeping in mind that Punjabian cuisine typically leans towards medium spiciness.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Chicken Saagwala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the sauce's consistency. Enjoy the flavors intensifying with each reheating.

Explore the essence of Punjabian cuisine through this wholesome and flavorful Chicken Saagwala recipe, a true celebration of traditional Indian flavors and culinary heritage.