Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of India’s most beloved and internationally recognized dishes. Its rich, creamy tomato-based gravy and tender chunks of chicken make it a favorite in Indian restaurants and home kitchens worldwide. While the traditional recipe requires a list of spices and hours of cooking, Shan Butter Chicken Masala simplifies the process, ensuring you can savor this delectable dish with ease. In this article, we’ll explore the essence of Shan Butter Chicken, its origins, and how to prepare this iconic Indian dish.
The Origins of Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken is said to have been invented in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral, a chef from Peshawar, who migrated to Delhi after the partition of India. Gujral is also the founder of the iconic restaurant, Moti Mahal, where Butter Chicken gained fame. The story goes that the dish was born out of a desire to avoid wasting leftover tandoori chicken. Chef Gujral mixed the tandoori chicken with a rich, tomato-based gravy, and Butter Chicken was born. Since then, it has become a staple of North Indian cuisine and a global sensation.
The Essence of Shan Butter Chicken
Shan is a renowned Pakistani brand specializing in spice mixes that simplify the cooking process while maintaining the authentic flavors of traditional dishes. Shan Butter Chicken Masala is one such spice blend that captures the essence of this classic Indian dish. Here are the key ingredients in Shan Butter Chicken Masala:
- Spices: Shan Butter Chicken Masala contains a harmonious blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic, red chili, and cardamom, which contribute to the dish’s complex flavor profile.
- Tomato and Cream Powder: These ingredients form the base of the creamy and slightly tangy gravy, giving the dish its signature richness.
- Salt and Sugar: These components are added to enhance the overall taste and balance the flavors.
- Citric Acid and Maltodextrin: These ingredients ensure the stability and shelf life of the spice mix.
How to Prepare Shan Butter Chicken
Using Shan Butter Chicken Masala is incredibly simple. Here are the steps to create this delectable dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 packet of Shan Butter Chicken Masala
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup cream
- 2 cups water
Instructions:
- Mix the Shan Butter Chicken Masala with yogurt to create a smooth paste.
- In a large pan, heat the butter and add the yogurt paste. Cook for a few minutes until the oil separates.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are slightly browned.
- Add water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is tender.
- Stir in the cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with naan or steamed rice.
Conclusion
Shan Butter Chicken Masala allows you to recreate the sumptuous flavors of Butter Chicken with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to Indian cuisine, this spice blend simplifies the cooking process while delivering the authentic taste and rich, creamy texture that this dish is known for. Shan Butter Chicken brings the magic of this iconic North Indian dish to your home kitchen, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors whenever the craving strikes.
