I don’t know about you, but for me, the kitchen is my sanctuary. It’s where I love to experiment, create, and taste the fruits of my labor. One of my favorite ways to do this is by using my Instant Pot. Have you ever tried making Indian cuisine in an Instant Pot? It’s like transforming your kitchen into a bustling street in the heart of India with just the press of a button.
One dish that I particularly love making in my Instant Pot is butter chicken. This dish is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day. To say it’s delicious would be an understatement, but what if I told you that you could whip up this culinary masterpiece in no time at all with the help of your Instant Pot?
The Beauty of Instant Pot Cooking
Why do I love cooking with an Instant Pot? Well, the answer is simple. It’s efficient, versatile, and it saves me a lot of time. Imagine having the ability to sauté, steam, slow cook, and pressure cook all in one pot. Moreover, it’s a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry and need to whip up a delicious meal quickly.
Butter chicken in an Instant Pot is a game-changer. It’s as if you’re compressing the long, slow process of marinating and simmering into a flash of culinary brilliance. The pressure cooking allows all those exquisite flavors to meld together beautifully in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.
Demystifying Indian Cuisine
Indian cuisine is often seen as complex and intimidating with its myriad of spices and flavors. But really, it’s about layering and balancing those flavors to create a symphony in your mouth. Once you get the hang of it, it’s as easy as pie and twice as delicious.
Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, as it is known in India, is a classic dish loved by all. It’s the perfect blend of tangy tomatoes, cream, and a blend of spices that will transport your taste buds straight to India. And making it in an Instant Pot? That’s the cherry on top.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The secret to a great butter chicken lies in the quality of your ingredients. It’s crucial to use fresh spices and herbs to bring out the best flavors in your dish. If possible, try to use organic chicken as it’s more flavorful and tender.
For the sauce, don’t skimp on the butter and cream. These are what give the dish its signature richness and velvety texture. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.
Ingredients
- 1 Kg boneless chicken
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Spices: 2 teaspoons garam masala, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and sauté until they’re golden brown.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot along with the spices and salt. Sauté until the chicken is lightly browned.
- Add the tomato puree and mix well. Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Once done, release the pressure manually. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Tips for Instant Pot Butter Chicken
1) Always add the cream at the end and simmer on low heat to prevent it from curdling. 2) Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more cayenne pepper. 3) You can also add a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe is the epitome of comfort food – it’s warming, hearty, and brimming with flavor. It’s a delightful blend of creamy and spicy, with a hint of tanginess. The tender chicken pieces melt in your mouth, and the rich, buttery sauce is perfect for mopping up with some warm naan. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the Instant Pot. This is a dish that’s sure to impress at any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a festive gathering.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 550 kcal