If you’re someone who enjoys exploring the rich flavors of South Indian cuisine, the Tamil style of cooking is something you should definitely try. Tamil cuisine hails from the region around Tamilnadu in India, and it offers a unique blend of spices and cooking techniques that have been perfected over generations. Among the various dishes from this region, Milagu Kozhi (Pepper Chicken) stands out as a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold, peppery flavors.
The warmth of freshly ground black pepper combined with tender chicken makes this dish a perfect comfort food. And, for those who are looking for a little extra excitement after enjoying such a dish, playing a few rounds of live casino games or trying a round of andar bahar can be an ideal way to add some thrill to your evening.
In this recipe, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to preparing Tamil style Milagu Kozhi, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The key to the success of this dish lies in the balance of spices and the marination process, allowing the chicken to absorb the intense peppery kick and the fragrant masalas. So, if you’re ready to indulge in a flavorful experience, let’s get started!
Ingredients for Tamil Style Milagu Kozhi
To make this mouthwatering Pepper Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 500 grams of chicken (boneless or bone-in)
- 1 tablespoon of black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste
- 1 medium-sized onion (finely chopped)
- 2 green chilies (slit)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 2 tablespoons of oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
- A handful of curry leaves
- Salt (to taste)
- Coriander leaves (for garnish)
For Marination:
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
To start, you need to marinate the chicken. In a large bowl, mix the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, black pepper, and salt. Make sure the chicken pieces are well-coated with the marinade. For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate it for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors seep in deeply.
Step 2: Preparing the Spice Mix
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the aromatic spice mix. Heat a small pan over medium heat and dry roast the black pepper, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds for about 2-3 minutes until they release a fragrant aroma. Once done, let the spices cool and grind them into a fine powder. Set aside for later.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the curry leaves and sauté them for a few seconds. Next, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the green chilies and ginger-garlic paste, cooking until the raw smell disappears.
Now, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and blend into the masala. Stir in the red chili powder, coriander powder, and the freshly ground black pepper spice mix. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
Add the marinated chicken to the pan, mixing everything together. Let the chicken cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a little water if needed to prevent the masala from sticking to the pan, but ensure that the consistency remains thick.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, check for salt and adjust to taste. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a fresh touch.
Step 5: Serving
Tamil style Milagu Kozhi is best served hot with rice, chapati, or even parotta. The peppery, spicy notes of the chicken make it a perfect pairing for steamed rice. The subtle yet bold flavors will undoubtedly leave you craving more.
Tips for the Perfect Milagu Kozhi
- Use Freshly Ground Pepper: The key to this dish’s punch lies in the freshly ground black pepper. Avoid pre-ground pepper to retain the intense, aromatic flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you like your food less spicy, you can reduce the amount of green chilies and red chili powder used. However, the black pepper should still be the star of the dish.
- Marinate Well: The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the flavors will develop, so try to give it ample time to soak in the spices.
- Add Coconut Milk (Optional): For a richer version, you can add a bit of coconut milk towards the end of the cooking process to balance the heat from the pepper and spices.
Tamil Style Milagu Kozhi is a delightful recipe to add to your cooking repertoire, especially for those who enjoy spicy, flavorful dishes. With its deep, rich flavors and satisfying taste, it is a true representation of the essence of Tamil cuisine.