Cooking

IIT DIGITAL DESK :  The summer heat rolls in, many of us find ourselves seeking out fresh and zesty dishes that can provide relief while still tantalizing our taste buds. One such dish that perfectly fits the bill is the tangy and spicy Raw Mango and Green Chilli Chicken. This recipe marries the refreshing sharpness of raw mango with the heat of green chilies and the tenderness of chicken, creating a flavor profile that is both invigorating and satisfying. A perfect choice for summer, this dish offers a burst of flavors that are sure to impress any food lover.

Raw mango, often a staple in Indian kitchens during the summer, brings with it a unique sourness that pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients. In this recipe, the raw mango not only adds a tartness to the dish but also brings numerous health benefits, such as being rich in vitamin C, which is known to boost immunity. Green chilies, on the other hand, add the perfect level of heat to balance out the mango’s tanginess, making it an ideal combination for the warmer months.

The concept of using raw mango in savory dishes is not new, especially in the Indian subcontinent, where mangoes are celebrated in both their ripe and unripe forms. While raw mango is commonly used in chutneys and pickles, its application in a chicken dish like this one is both refreshing and inventive. What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity – you don’t need an array of complicated spices or techniques, just a few key ingredients that bring out the natural flavors of the season.

The star of the recipe is undoubtedly the combination of the raw mango, green chilies, and tender chicken pieces, which when cooked together, create a tantalizing harmony of spicy and tangy flavors. The mango provides a zesty base, while the green chilies add an exciting kick. The chicken, marinated with aromatic spices, soaks up all the flavors, making each bite a burst of summer goodness.

 To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500 grams of chicken (preferably boneless pieces)

• 1 medium-sized raw mango, peeled and grated

• 4-5 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)

• 1 large onion, finely sliced

• 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder

• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional, to enhance the tanginess)

The Cooking Process

1. Marinate the Chicken: Start by marinating the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt, turmeric, and red chili powder. Let the chicken sit for about 20 minutes to absorb the spices. Marinating beforehand ensures that the chicken remains tender and flavorful.

2. Prepare the Raw Mango: Peel and grate the raw mango. Set it aside for later use. The raw mango’s natural tartness will play a key role in giving this dish its unique flavor.

3. Sauté the Onions and Spices: Heat two tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then, add the finely sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. The caramelization of the onions brings out their sweetness, which complements the sourness of the mango beautifully.

4. Add the Green Chilies and Ginger-Garlic Paste: Once the onions are golden, add the green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Cook for a minute until the raw smell of the ginger-garlic paste disappears, and it becomes aromatic.

5. Cook the Raw Mango: Add the grated raw mango to the pan and stir well. Let the mango cook for about 5-7 minutes. During this time, the mango will release its juices and soften, creating a tangy base for the dish.

6. Season with Spices: Now, it’s time to add the ground spices – coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to infuse into the mango and onion mixture. The raw mango’s tang will balance out the heat from the green chilies and the spices, making it a perfect combination.

7. Add the Chicken: Now add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Mix the chicken thoroughly with the mango-spice mixture. Let the chicken cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken will absorb all the flavors of the raw mango and spices. If needed, you can add a little water to prevent the dish from drying out.

8. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, check for seasoning and adjust the salt or spice levels as necessary. Garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves, and if you prefer a more tangy flavor, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the dish before serving.

 The Raw Mango and Green Chilli Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed rice, biryani, or flatbreads like naan or roti. Its spicy and tangy flavors can be complemented by a side of cooling yogurt or a simple cucumber salad.

 This dish is the epitome of summer cuisine. The raw mango provides a refreshing and cooling effect, while the green chilies give it the kind of zing that is perfect for hot days. The chicken, cooked to perfection, balances the vibrant and bold flavors of the mango and chilies, making each bite an exciting experience. Additionally, raw mangoes are known for their health benefits, including boosting immunity and aiding digestion, which is why this dish is not only tasty but also a healthy choice for the season.

Raw Mango and Green Chilli Chicken is a must-try summer special that perfectly balances the heat and tang of the season. Its bold flavors and simple preparation make it an ideal dish for both a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate meal to share with family and friends. So, as the temperatures rise, why not cool down with a dish that delivers the essence of summer in every bite? This refreshing, spicy, and tangy chicken recipe will surely become a new favorite in your summer recipe repertoire.