The Best Chicken Navratan Korma Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Chicken Navratan Korma is a rich and flavorful Mughlai dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, nut-based gravy, enhanced with a blend of aromatic spices and assorted vegetables. “Navratan” means “nine gems,” referring to the variety of ingredients used to create this royal delicacy. This guide will take you through a step-by-step process to prepare an authentic Chicken Navratan Korma at home, ensuring a perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Navratan Korma

Essential Ingredients for the Base

• Boneless chicken pieces (500g)
• Onion (2, finely chopped)
• Tomatoes (2, pureed)
• Yogurt (1/2 cup, whisked)
• Cashew nuts (10-12, soaked and blended into a paste)
• Heavy cream (1/4 cup)
• Ginger-garlic paste (1 tbsp)
• Green chilies (2, finely chopped)

Spices and Seasonings

• Turmeric powder (1/2 tsp)
• Red chili powder (1 tsp)
• Garam masala (1 tsp)
• Coriander powder (1 tsp)
• Cardamom pods (2-3)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Cloves (3-4)
• Cinnamon stick (1-inch piece)

Assorted Vegetables and Nuts

• Carrots (1/2 cup, diced)
• Peas (1/2 cup)
• Bell peppers (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Raisins (2 tbsp)
• Almonds (10, blanched and slivered)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a pan and add the whole spices (cardamom, cloves, bay leaf, cinnamon).
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on high heat until they turn white.

Making the Korma Gravy

1. Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates.
2. Stir in turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
3. Lower the heat and add the whisked yogurt, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
4. Mix in the cashew paste and cook for 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Cooking the Vegetables and Nuts

1. In a separate pan, sauté the carrots, peas, and bell peppers until tender.
2. Add the vegetables to the korma gravy and mix well.
3. Stir in raisins and slivered almonds for a hint of sweetness.

Final Touches and Serving

1. Pour in the heavy cream and garam masala, mixing well.
2. Simmer for another 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and additional nuts.
4. Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Navratan Korma

Choosing the Right Ingredients

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best texture and taste.
• Opt for whole spices instead of powdered for enhanced flavor.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

• Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less cashew paste.
• If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of warm water or milk.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

• Let the korma rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
• Toasting the nuts before adding them can intensify their taste.

Variations of Chicken Navratan Korma

Vegetarian Navratan Korma

• Replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add more vegetables like beans and cauliflower for extra texture.

Spicier Version

• Increase the amount of red chili powder and green chilies for extra heat.
• Add black pepper for an additional layer of spice.

Low-Calorie Version

• Use low-fat yogurt and skip the heavy cream for a healthier alternative.
• Reduce the quantity of nuts to lower the calorie count.

Conclusion

Chicken Navratan Korma is a dish that brings together the richness of Mughlai cuisine with a balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this step-by-step guide ensures you get the most delicious and authentic result. Serve it with naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice, and enjoy the regal taste of this creamy and nutty delicacy.

Advice

To prepare the perfect Chicken Navratan Korma, start by using fresh, high-quality ingredients, as they greatly impact the flavor. When cooking the onions, take your time to caramelize them properly—this enhances the richness of the gravy. While adding yogurt, always lower the heat and stir continuously to prevent curdling. For an authentic taste, use whole spices like cardamom, cloves, and bay leaves instead of just powdered ones. When blending the cashew paste, ensure it’s smooth and creamy for a luscious texture. Lastly, allow the korma to simmer gently for a few minutes after adding cream and nuts—this helps all the flavors meld beautifully. Serve hot with naan or basmati rice for the ultimate experience! 😊