Chicken Cafreal

Chicken Cafreal is a vibrant and aromatic dish that hails from the Goan region of India. This flavorful creation showcases the influence of Portuguese cuisine on Goan cooking, blending a rich mix of spices, herbs, and tangy ingredients. Often paired with rice or bread, Chicken Cafreal is a testament to Goan culinary traditions and the fusion of Portuguese and Indian influences, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a taste of coastal India.

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Recipe

Region/ cuisine: Goan

Ingredients for Chicken Cafreal

For the Marinade:

• 250 grams chicken

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon oil

For the Cafreal Paste:

• 1 onion

• 6 garlic cloves

• A bunch of coriander leaves

• 2 green chilies

• 5 peppercorns

• 5 cloves

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• Water (as needed)

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons oil (for frying chicken)

• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, adjust to taste)

• Salt (to taste)

For Garnish:

• Potatoes (thinly sliced, for crisping and presentation)

To Serve:

• Bread (or any preferred accompaniment)

Feel free to adjust the spice levels and ketchup according to your taste preferences!

Chicken Cafreal Recipe

Marinade:

1. In a bowl, combine 250 grams of chicken with 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of oil.

2. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Cafreal Paste:

1. Roast 1 onion and 6 garlic cloves over an open flame until they develop a smoky aroma.

2. In a blender, combine a bunch of coriander leaves, the roasted onion and garlic, 2 green chilies, 5 peppercorns, 5 cloves, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a little water. Blend until smooth.

Preparation:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and fry until crispy and smoky. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate.

2. In the same pan, add the prepared Cafreal paste and sauté for 4-5 minutes.

3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of ketchup (add an extra tablespoon for a tangier flavor, if desired). Mix well and adjust salt to taste. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the fried chicken back into the pan, coating it thoroughly with the paste. Cook until well combined and heated through.

5. Transfer the Chicken Cafreal to a serving dish.

Presentation:

1. In the same pan, add thinly sliced potatoes and cook until they are crispy.

2. Use the crispy potatoes as a garnish or accompaniment when serving the Chicken Cafreal.

3. Serve the dish with bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cafreal with the crispy potatoes and bread!