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Pumpkin Butter Chicken

A comforting dish that combines creamy pumpkin and traditional spices for a warm autumn meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon minced or grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon minced or grated garlic
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 white or yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons minced or grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 (14 oz) can unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup (225 g) pumpkin puree

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, minced ginger, minced garlic, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Toss the chicken chunks into the mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight, if you’re planning ahead).
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the ginger and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-8 minutes.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, garam masala, curry powder, coriander, and cumin, letting it toast for a minute.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and pumpkin puree, mixing well to create a luscious sauce.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add a splash of water or more coconut milk if the sauce gets too thick. Once creamy, serve!

Notes

Serve over basmati rice or warm naan, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, butter chicken, comfort food, autumn recipes, Indian cuisine