12/09/2024
Chicken 65 is a popular spicy, deep-fried chicken dish from South India, known for its vibrant red color and bold flavors. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to preparing it.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 2 tbsp cornflour
- 2 tbsp rice flour
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Curry leaves (a handful)
- 2-3 green chilies (slit)
- Oil for frying
- Red food color (optional, for the signature color)
Marinade and Preparation:
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, salt, lemon juice, and a few drops of food color (optional). Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1-2 hours for better flavor).
2. Prepare the Coating: After marinating, add cornflour, rice flour, and egg (optional) to the marinated chicken. This helps create a crispy coating.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pan. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain excess oil by placing them on paper towels.
4. Temper with Curry Leaves and Green Chilies: In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil. Add curry leaves and slit green chilies, and sauté until fragrant. Toss the fried chicken in this mix to coat it with extra flavor.
Serving:
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges. Chicken 65 is often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack.