Chicken Curry

Watch this video to learn how to cook Chicken Curry!

3 pounds chicken pieces or 1 ½ boneless skinless chicken

2 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 cardamom pods (optional)

1 2-inch piece of cinnamon stick (optional)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 garlic cloves, chopped

2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped

1 medium tomato, finely chopped

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

1 tablespoons coriander powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, coarsely ground

1 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely ground

1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Remove the skin and all visible fat from the chicken pieces. (I often have the butcher clean the chicken.) Cut 2-3 slits, 1 inch long and 1/2 inch deep, in each piece of chicken. Set aside. Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and fry for 3-5 minutes, turning the pieces over once or twice until they are white. Transfer the chicken to a plate using a slotted spoon. Add cumin powder, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, chopped onion, garlic and ginger to the oil. Fry for 7-8 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onions are golden brown. Stir in tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, cayenne pepper, ground fennel seeds and black pepper. Fry for 2-3 minutes. Whip yogurt with wire wisk and add 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly. Fry for another 2-4 minutes. Add the chicken and sprinkle with salt. Stir to coat the spice mixture evenly. Pour the water evenly over the chicken. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Add the cilantro and gently stir the chicken. Cover tightly and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Chicken should be tender to the touch but should not fall apart. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with lemon juice.