Understanding the Differences: Butter Chicken Curry vs. Chicken Curry

Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, with dishes that have captivated palates around the world. Among these beloved dishes are Butter Chicken Curry (Murgh Makhani) and Chicken Curry. While both are delicious and share some similarities, they each have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Let’s dive into the differences between Butter Chicken Curry and Chicken Curry.

Butter Chicken Curry (Murgh Makhani)

Flavor Profile: Butter Chicken Curry is known for its rich, creamy, and mildly spiced flavor. The sauce is smooth and luxurious, making it a favorite for those who enjoy milder, creamier dishes.

Sauce Base: The sauce for Butter Chicken Curry is made with butter, heavy cream, and tomato puree. This combination gives the dish its signature creamy texture and slightly sweet taste.

Typical Spices:

  • Garam masala
  • Cumin
  • Coriander
  • Turmeric
  • Chili powder

Ingredients:

  • Chicken (typically boneless)
  • Butter
  • Heavy cream
  • Tomato puree
  • Yogurt (optional for marinating the chicken)
  • Aromatic spices

Cooking Method: The chicken is often marinated in yogurt and spices before being cooked. The sauce is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger, then adding tomato puree, butter, cream, and spices. The chicken is simmered in this rich sauce until tender.

Serving Suggestions: Butter Chicken Curry pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. It’s also great with a side of cucumber raita to balance the richness.

Butter Chicken Curry Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Brown the chicken in a pan with vegetable oil. Remove and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger. Add tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and butter.
  4. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the pan, simmering in the sauce for 20 minutes.
  5. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve with naan or rice.

Chicken Curry

Flavor Profile: Chicken Curry offers a rich, aromatic, and spiced flavor. The use of coconut milk adds a slight sweetness and creaminess to the dish, balancing the bold spices.

Sauce Base: The sauce for Chicken Curry is made with coconut milk and tomatoes, creating a creamy yet slightly tangy base that complements the spices.

Typical Spices:

  • Cumin
  • Coriander
  • Turmeric
  • Garam masala
  • Chili powder
  • Paprika

Ingredients:

  • Chicken (bone-in or boneless)
  • Coconut milk
  • Tomatoes
  • Aromatic spices
  • Onions, garlic, and ginger

Cooking Method: The chicken is cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and spices. Coconut milk is then added, and the mixture simmers until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together.

Serving Suggestions: Chicken Curry pairs well with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. A side of cucumber raita or a green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the spiced curry.

Chicken Curry Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 green chilies, sliced (optional for extra heat)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Onions: Sauté onions in vegetable oil until golden brown.
  2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Tomatoes: Add tomatoes and cook until softened.
  4. Add the Spices: Stir in spices and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the Chicken: Brown the chicken in the spice mixture.
  6. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in coconut milk, bringing to a simmer.
  7. Simmer: Cook until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
  8. Finish: Stir in cilantro and lime juice.
  9. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Conclusion:

While both Butter Chicken Curry and Chicken Curry are beloved dishes in Indian cuisine, they each offer unique flavors and textures. Butter Chicken Curry is rich and creamy with a luxurious sauce, while Chicken Curry is aromatic and spiced with the added creaminess of coconut milk. Try both recipes to experience the delightful differences yourself!

Discover more about the use of herbs while cooking and elevate your culinary skills.
 

One thought on “Butter Chicken Curry vs. Chicken Curry”

Comments are closed.