If you think Goa is all about sandy beaches and nightlife, then maybe it’s time to revise your knowledge. Just like any other part of our country, this region also has a rich food culture and a wide range of culinary offerings. Goa was ruled by Portuguese rulers for hundreds of years, and their influence on Goan culture and cuisine continues to this day. You’ll find numerous dishes that are either named after or derived from their language or use specific ingredients or cooking styles that reflect Portuguese culture. Today, we’ll be introducing you to one such recipe that serves as a perfect example. It’s called chicken vindaloo.
What Is Chicken Vindaloo?
Vindaloo is the Goan version of the classic chicken curry. If you’re wondering what makes it so unique, well, it’s that this one is super spicy and fiery. And the reason for this is the use of vindaloo masala, the name that this dish is named after. The term ‘vindaloo’ is derived from the Portuguese dish ‘carne de vinha d’alhos’, made of marinated meat, garlic, wine, and spices. Both of these dishes share striking similarities in the process of marination and their spice level. If you’re a fan of spicy chicken curries, then you’ll absolutely love this one. If you’re wondering what to pair with this Goan chicken curry, then we suggest you pair it with some steamed rice. The best part is that you can also experiment with other meats, such as pork and mutton, to make this dish.
Also Read: Goan Recipes: 4 Ways To Make The Spicy Vindaloo Curry At Home
Photo Credit: Istock
Chicken Vindaloo Recipe: How To Make Chicken Vindaloo
To make this dish, we first need to marinate the chicken. Add the chicken pieces to a bowl and combine them with haldi, red chilli powder, ginger-garlic paste, coriander powder, vinegar, and salt. Mix well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for around 1 to 2 hours. For vindaloo masala, heat oil in a pan and add chopped onions. Saute until they turn golden brown in colour. Now, in a separate pan, roast dry red chillies, elaichi, mustard seeds, a cinnamon stick, jeera, and saunf.
Also Read: Goan Cuisine: 7 Yummy Non-Vegetarian Goan Recipes That Are More Than Just Seafood
Grind these roasted masalas with ginger and garlic to form a smooth paste. (Add water if needed) Add this vindaloo masala to the onion mix and cook for a few minutes. Next, add the marinated chicken and cook on high heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Now, reduce the heat to low, add water, cover, and allow it to simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. Once done, add salt to taste and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Click here for the complete recipe for chicken vindaloo.
Make this delicious chicken dish at home and impress your family with your culinary skills. Do let us know how they liked it in the comments below.