Chicken Rogan Josh

Welcome to Stevies Curry Magic! Today, we're diving into the rich, aromatic world of Chicken Rogan Josh-an iconic dish that epitomizes the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine. Imagine tender pieces of chicken simmered in a luscious, spiced gravy infused with fragrant herbs and spices, creating a symphony of taste that warms the soul. Whether you're a curry connoisseur or trying your hand at Indian cooking for the first time, Rogan Josh offers a perfect balance of bold flavours and comforting textures. Join me as we explore the magic behind this beloved dish and learn how to craft an irresistible Chicken Rogan Josh right in your own kitchen!

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Serves 4 

 Preparation time 10 minutes,  Cooking time around 40 minutes,  Overall time  50 minutes.

Recipe Difficulty level - Beginner-Friendly

Special equipment - None

Heat level - Medium

Nutrition values for chicken rogan josh.

Expand for nutrition values

Here is an approximate nutritional profile for a typical serving of Chicken Rogan Josh. Please note that actual values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used:

Estimated Nutritional Values for One Serving (about 1 cup or 200-250 grams) of Chicken Rogan Josh:

• Calories: 350-400 kcal

• Protein: 25-30 grams

• Total Fat: 15-20 grams

• Saturated Fat: 3-5 grams

• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

• Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams

• Sugars: 5-8 grams

• Sodium: 600-800 mg

Additional Nutrients:

Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A (from spices and tomatoes), Vitamin C (from onions and tomatoes), and some B vitamins.

Minerals: Good source of iron, potassium, and calcium.

Notes:

- Using low-fat or skinless chicken and reducing oil or cream can lower the calorie and fat content.

- Including more vegetables can increase fiber and nutrient content.

- Serving with plain rice or naan will add additional calories and carbs.

Chicken Rogan Josh

A little Rogan Josh history

Rogan Josh is a classic Indian curry that originated in the Mughal kitchens of Persia and Central Asia before becoming a beloved staple in Indian cuisine, particularly in the Kashmir region. The dish reflects a fusion of Persian culinary influences with Indian spices and cooking techniques.

Origins and Evolution:

The name "Rogan Josh" derives from Persian words: "Rogan" meaning "oil" or "clarified butter," and "Josh" meaning "intense heat" or "passion." Originally, it was a slow-cooked lamb dish seasoned with aromatic spices and cooked in a rich, spiced gravy. Over time, it was adapted with chicken and other meats, becoming a popular dish across India and the UK.

The Role of Spices:

The spices used in Rogan Josh—coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and cayenne pepper—each have deep historical roots:

Coriander and Cumin:

Ancient spices brought along trade routes from the Middle East and Central Asia, vital to Mughal cuisine. They contribute warmth and depth to the dish.

Turmeric:

Introduced from South Asia, turmeric's vibrant color and earthy flavour give Rogan Josh its characteristic hue and aroma. Historically, it was valued for its medicinal properties as well.

Garam Masala:

A fragrant blend of spices that adds complexity and warmth. Its origins lie in Indian culinary traditions, often toasted to release essential oils and enhance flavour, a technique reflected in my cooking tip.

Paprika and Cayenne Pepper:

While paprika originated in Central America, it was adopted into Indian cuisine through European influence, adding colour and mild heat. Cayenne peppers, also from the Americas, bring a fiery kick that balances the richness of the gravy.

Culinary Significance:

Traditionally, Rogan Josh is slow-cooked to allow the spices to meld into a rich, aromatic sauce. The technique of toasting spices before adding liquids is centuries-old, enhancing flavour and aroma—a tradition you’re incorporating with your freshly ground spices.

In essence:

Your preparation of the spice mixture and the toasting method pay homage to centuries of Mughal and Indian culinary traditions, where aromatic spices and slow cooking create dishes celebrated worldwide for their depth and richness.

Chicken Rogan Josh Recipe

Ingredients:

500g (1 lb) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks I usually allow one chicken breast per person

2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee

1 large onion, finely sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1- inch piece fresh ginger, grated

2 teaspoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes

1 small tub of tomato puree

150ml (about 2/3 cup) water or chicken broth

75g (about 1/4 cup) plain yogurt or cream

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Optional: Whole spices like cinnamon stick, bay leaf, or cardamom pods for added flavor

How to make Chicken Rogan Josh

Click here for Kitchen Timer

Instructions:

1. Preparation :Gather all ingredients and prepare your spices, chicken, and vegetables.

   
   

2. Sauté Onions and Aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown, approximately 8-10 minutes. To enhance their sweetness, I often sprinkle in a little salt, which helps draw out moisture. Covering the pan with a lid during this process also promotes caramelization and brings out a lovely depth of flavour. Once the onions are golden, add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

   
   

3. Add Spices: Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, allowing their aromas to fully develop and infuse the dish.

   
   

   Cook's tip: For an even richer flavour, I prefer to use whole coriander seeds and cumin seeds, grinding them fresh in a coffee grinder. This extra step adds a deeper, more complex dimension to the spices.

   
   

4. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

   
   

5. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, tub of puree and water or broth. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the chicken to become tender.

   
   

6. Finish with Yogurt or Cream: Remove from heat and stir in the yogurt or cream to add richness. Season with salt to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more water.

   
   

7. Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with fragrant basmati rice or naan bread.

Goes well with:

Fragrant Basmati Rice

Plain Naan

Saag Aloo

Frequently asked questions for Chicken Rogan Josh

What is Chicken Rogan Josh?

Chicken Rogan Josh is a flavorful Indian curry made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, aromatic gravy infused with spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. It originates from the Mughal kitchens of Kashmir and Persia.

2. What ingredients are typically used in Chicken Rogan Josh?

3. Is Rogan Josh spicy?

4. Can I make Chicken Rogan Josh vegetarian?

5. How long does it take to cook Chicken Rogan Josh?

6. What is the best way to serve Chicken Rogan Josh?

7. Can I prepare Chicken Rogan Josh ahead of time?

8. How can I make the dish milder or spicier?

9. Is Chicken Rogan Josh gluten-free?

10. What are some common variations of Rogan Josh?

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Conclusion

Chicken Rogan Josh is a delicious and aromatic curry that brings a taste of Indian and Kashmiri cuisine right to your table. Its rich blend of spices and tender chicken make it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion, whether you're cooking a family dinner or hosting friends. With simple ingredients and versatile preparation methods, you can easily customize the spice level and ingredients to suit your preferences. Enjoy it with steaming rice or warm naan for a fulfilling and flavourful meal. Give this classic recipe a try and savour the authentic flavours of Chicken Rogan Josh!

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Cheers Steve.