- Chickpeas (1 kg): Washed and soaked for 4 hours with 1 tbsp baking soda.
- Baking Soda (1 tbsp)
- Salt (1 tbsp)
- Clarified Butter (250 g)
- Green Cardamom (12 pods)
- Garam Masala Powder (2 tbsp)
- Cumin Powder (1 ½ tbsp)
- Black Pepper Powder (1 tbsp)
- Paprika Powder (1 tbsp)
- Red Chili Powder (1 ½ tsp, heaped)
- Salt (1 tbsp)
- Chicken (1250 g, cut into pieces)
- Water (3 large glasses)
- Bullet Green Chilies (5)
1. Prepare Chickpeas:
- Wash 1 kg of chickpeas thoroughly.
- Soak the chickpeas for 4 hours with 1 tbsp of baking soda. (*Note: In summer, avoid soaking overnight to prevent spoilage; overnight soaking is suitable only in winter.*)
2. Cook Chickpeas:
- After soaking, wash the chickpeas again.
- Place them in a large pot, add enough water to submerge the chickpeas, 1 tbsp of baking soda, and 1 tbsp of salt.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer on medium heat until the chickpeas are tender.
3. Prepare the Masala:
- Heat 250 g of clarified butter in a pan.
- Add 12 green cardamom pods, 2 tbsp garam masala powder, 1 ½ tbsp cumin powder, 1 tbsp black pepper powder, 1 tbsp paprika powder, 1 ½ tsp heaped red chili powder, and 1 tbsp salt.
- Cook on medium flame for a few seconds, then add ¼ cup of water.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Add 1250 g of chicken pieces to the masala.
- Fry the chicken in the masala for 12 minutes on medium flame, occasionally adding a few tablespoons of water to prevent sticking.
5. Mash Chickpeas for Thick Gravy:
- While the chicken is frying, use a masher to lightly mash some chickpeas. This will help thicken the gravy.
6. Combine Chickpeas and Chicken:
- Once the chicken is well-fried, add 3 large glasses of water.
- Mix, cover, and cook on medium flame until the chicken is tender.
- Gradually add the boiled chickpeas to the chicken curry, allowing the clarified butter to remain on top. Stir gently to avoid disturbing the clarified butter.
7. Simmer with Green Chilies:
- Add 5 bullet green chilies.
- Simmer on low flame for 12 minutes.
8. Serve:
- Serve hot with naan, accompanied by onions, green chilies, and lemon wedges.
Additional Tips for Murgh Chana Recipe
- Soaking Tips: Soaking the chickpeas with baking soda helps to soften them faster. Adjust soaking times according to the season to ensure the chickpeas don't spoil.
- Clarified Butter: Using clarified butter adds a rich, authentic flavor to the dish. If unavailable, substitute with ghee or regular cooking oil.
- Green Cardamom: This spice adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the other spices well. Do not skip this ingredient for an authentic taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Murgh Chana pairs perfectly with naan, but it can also be served with steamed rice or parathas for a complete meal experience.
Conclusion
This Lahore-style Murgh Chana Recipe is an authentic breakfast delight, perfect for a hearty morning meal. Combining tender chicken with flavorful chickpeas in a rich, spicy gravy, this dish is ideal for family breakfasts or special occasions. Enjoy the traditional taste of "Lahore ki Subha ke nashte ki Authentic Tari walay Murgh Chana" and make your mornings special with this delicious recipe from Cook With Faiza. Serve it hot with naan, onions, green chilies, and lemon wedges for a complete and satisfying meal.
1: Chutney, Raita & Salad Recipes
2: Rice Recipes
3: Meat, Chicken, Fish & Eggs Recipes
6: Naan, Roti, Parath, Poori & Dough Recipes
7: Desserts, Sweet Dish & Drinks Recipes
COOK WITH FAIZA