At Shalimar Phuket, we celebrate the timeless flavors of Indian cuisine with dishes that are rich, aromatic, like Methi Chicken. Among these classics, methi chicken holds a special place for its unique balance of spices and the gentle bitterness of fenugreek leaves. This flavorful dish brings together warm Indian aromatics with the soothing depth of a slow-cooked curry. In this article, we explore the authentic methi chicken recipe, how it is prepared in our kitchen, and why it remains one of the most comforting meals for visitors seeking a true taste of India in Phuket.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
Fenugreek has been a cornerstone of Indian cooking for centuries, known for its delightful aroma and health-supporting qualities. Whether used as fresh leaves, dried leaves (kasuri methi), or seeds, its warm and slightly nutty fragrance enhances curries beautifully. When paired with tender chicken, the result is a dish that feels both homely and luxurious.
Over time, variations like methi malai chicken have become popular for their creamy texture, while spicier versions lean toward a robust methi chicken curry profile. At Shalimar, we combine authenticity with subtle refinement to create a version that appeals to both traditional diners and newcomers exploring Indian food.
Ingredients Used in Traditional Methi Chicken
A genuine methi chicken recipe depends on high-quality ingredients and careful balancing of spices. At Shalimar Phuket, we use:
- Fresh chicken pieces cut for tenderness
- Fresh fenugreek leaves or kasuri methi for deeper aroma
- Onion, ginger, and garlic for the base flavor
- Mild and warm Indian spices
- Fresh cream (optional, depending on the variation)
- Tomatoes for balance
- A touch of clarified butter or oil
How We Prepare Methi Chicken at Shalimar Phuket
Our chefs follow a time-tested method to create a dish that embodies warmth and comfort. Here’s a closer look at the preparation process:
1. Preparing the Base
The dish begins with sautéing onions, ginger, and garlic until golden and aromatic. This flavorful base is the foundation for the curry.
2. Cooking the Chicken
Tender chicken pieces are added and seared until lightly browned. This helps lock in moisture and gives the dish its characteristic depth.
3. Balancing the Spices
A blend of classic Indian spices is added, providing warmth without overpowering the gentle fenugreek notes.
4. Adding Tomatoes and Simmering
Fresh tomatoes are added next, simmering slowly to create a smooth gravy. This gradual cooking process allows flavors to develop fully.
5. Adding Fenugreek
Freshly cleaned methi leaves or kasuri methi are mixed into the curry. Their aroma begins to release immediately, infusing the dish with its signature fragrance.
6. Optional Creamy Twist
For guests who enjoy a milder variation similar to methi malai chicken, a touch of cream can be added for richness and smoothness.
7. Final Simmer
The curry is left to simmer until the chicken becomes perfectly tender and the fenugreek flavor blends harmoniously into the gravy.
This method results in a comforting curry with layers of flavor—earthy, aromatic, and gently spiced.
Methi Chicken at Shalimar Phuket – A Customer Favorite
Though Phuket is known for its coastal flavors and Thai delicacies, Shalimar offers a culinary escape for travelers craving the comfort of Indian meals. Our version of this classic dish is popular among families, tourists seeking authentic Indian food, and locals who appreciate well-balanced curries.
Why guests love it:
- It has a soothing, aromatic flavor ideal for lunch or dinner.
- It’s hearty without being heavy.
- It pairs beautifully with rice, roti, or naan.
- The fenugreek aroma is warm and inviting.
For diners discovering Indian cuisine for the first time, this dish is a wonderful introduction to traditional cooking techniques and spice combinations.
Simple Home-Style Methi Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 500g chicken
- 1 cup fresh fenugreek leaves or 1 tbsp kasuri methi
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, blended
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- Mild Indian spices
- Oil or ghee
- 2–3 tbsp cream (optional for malai version)
Steps
- Heat oil or ghee and sauté the onions until soft.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
- Add chicken and sauté until lightly browned.
- Mix in your preferred spices and cook briefly.
- Pour in the blended tomatoes and simmer.
- Add fenugreek leaves or kasuri methi.
- Simmer until chicken is tender and gravy thickens.
- Add cream if making methi malai chicken.
This version provides a close approximation of the rich flavors we serve at Shalimar Phuket.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to cook methi chicken?
Cook the chicken slowly in a spiced gravy until tender, finishing with fresh or dried fenugreek.
How to make kasuri methi chicken?
Simply replace fresh fenugreek leaves with dried kasuri methi for a more intense aroma.
How to make methi chicken curry?
Increase the tomato base and simmer longer to achieve a thicker, more robust curry-style variation.