Imagine this: it’s a cozy weekend evening, and you’re craving something spicy, rich, and bursting with traditional South Indian flavor. You’ve tried butter chicken, tikka masala, maybe even biryani. But you want something more robust—less creamy, more fiery. That’s where Chicken Ghee Roast comes in.
This iconic dish from the coastal town of Kundapur in Karnataka is a perfect fusion of earthy spices, roasted masalas, and the unmistakable aroma of desi ghee. In this post, you’ll discover how to make Chicken Ghee Roast at home, why it’s more than just another chicken recipe, and how to give it that authentic South Indian touch that even restaurant chefs admire.
What Makes Chicken Ghee Roast So Special?
✅ Rich Flavor, Minimal Ingredients
Ghee is the real hero here. Unlike butter or oil, ghee adds depth and a nutty flavor. When you combine it with roasted spices and marinated chicken, the outcome is unforgettable.
✅ South Indian Heritage
This dish isn’t just food—it’s culture. Originating from Mangalorean and Kundapur kitchens, Chicken Ghee Roast is often served in traditional households during special occasions and temple feasts.
How to Make Chicken Ghee Roast at Home (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a simple, foolproof method for preparing this dish with bold flavors:
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g chicken (boneless or with bone)
- 3 tbsp ghee
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 8-10 dry red chilies (Kashmiri for color, Byadgi for heat)
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp fenugreek seeds
- 6 garlic cloves
- Tamarind pulp (1 tsp)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh curry leaves
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate Chicken:
Add turmeric, salt, lemon juice, and a little yogurt. Let it sit for 30 mins. - Prepare Masala Paste:
Dry roast the red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin, fenugreek. Cool them. Blend with garlic and tamarind into a thick paste. - Cook Chicken:
In ghee, sauté the chicken until halfway done. Remove and keep aside. - Cook the Masala:
In the same pan, add ghee again and fry sliced onions till golden. Add the paste and sauté till oil separates. - Combine & Roast:
Add chicken back in. Cook on low flame till ghee separates and the masala coats the chicken. Garnish with curry leaves.
Quick Glance: Pros & Cons of Chicken Ghee Roast
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Rich, spicy, and deeply satisfying | Too spicy for mild palates |
| Ingredients | Easily available in Indian kitchens | Requires time to roast & blend |
| Health Impact | Protein-rich, ghee aids digestion | High fat if ghee is overused |
| Authenticity | 100% traditional Mangalorean flavor | Needs practice to perfect taste |
| Serving Flexibility | Goes well with roti, rice, dosa, or naan | Not ideal for Western salads |
📚 Expert Insight & Tip
According to Chef Harish Rao from Mangalore Culinary Institute:
“For authentic results, always use Byadgi chilies and fresh tamarind pulp. Store-bought pastes dull the flavor profile.”
Also, a study published in the Journal of Indian Spices (2021) notes that dry-roasted masalas not only enhance flavor but boost antioxidant content too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Chicken Ghee Roast?
It’s a traditional Mangalorean chicken dish known for its rich, spicy masala cooked in pure ghee, originating from Kundapur.
2. How spicy is it?
It can be quite spicy, but the use of Kashmiri chilies ensures it has a rich red color without overwhelming heat.
3. Can I make it keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Skip onions and use boneless chicken thighs with pure ghee and homemade masala for a perfect keto version.
4. Is this dish suitable for kids?
You can tone down the spice by reducing the number of chilies and using cream to mellow the heat.
5. What do I serve it with?
Traditionally with neer dosa or steamed rice, but it’s also great with roti, naan, or even crusty bread.
6. Can I store leftovers?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
7. Is ghee healthier than oil?
Ghee contains healthy fats and has a high smoke point, making it a great choice for roasting. But moderation is key.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Ghee Roast isn’t just another curry—it’s an experience rooted in centuries of South Indian cooking. If you’re a spice lover or a fan of traditional recipes, this is a must-try. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special dinner date, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
💬 Tried it? Got questions or your own twist on the recipe? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!
Suggested LSI Keywords:
- Kundapur Chicken Ghee Roast
- Traditional Mangalorean Recipes
- Spicy Indian Chicken Recipes
- Homemade Indian Masala
- South Indian Chicken Roast
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