Kodi Vepudu

Method

1. 1

   Marinate chicken: Cut 750g chicken into medium pieces. Mix with 1 tsp turmeric, 1.5 tsp red chilli powder, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste and salt. Marinate 30 minutes.

2. 2

   Fry shallots: Heat 4 tbsp oil. Add 1.5 cups sliced shallots and fry on medium heat 10-12 minutes until dark golden.

3. 3

   Add ginger-garlic: Add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste and fry 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Add tomatoes: Add 3 chopped tomatoes. Cook 8 minutes pressing until oil separates.

5. 5

   Add marinated chicken: Add chicken and toss on high heat 8-10 minutes until fully sealed and coloured.

6. 6

   Add spice powders: Add 1 tsp coriander powder and 1 tsp garam masala. Toss and cook 3 minutes.

7. 7

   Cook dry: Do not add water — kodi vepudu is a dry dish. Cook on medium heat 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes.

8. 8

   Add curry leaves: Add a large sprig of curry leaves. Toss and cook 2 minutes.

9. 9

   Fry until dry: Increase heat to high and cook 3-4 more minutes until completely dry with no gravy.

10. 10

    Serve: Adjust salt. Kodi vepudu should be dark, dry and richly spiced. Serve with steamed rice.