The domain of Indian cuisine is exotic, and the best part is that there is something unique about every dish. Regardless of which dish you want to try, there is something special for everyone, and each individual has their favourite option to enjoy. One such dish, which is famous not only for the Indian palette but has a global taste as well, is none other than the humble chicken tikka.
While the seekh kebab is also a very important take on kebabs, chicken tikka continues to become extremely popular. Whether you are someone who loves to have a spicy dish as a starter or even someone who wants to just get the true grilled flavours, chicken tikka is a great option.
For anyone who loves chicken tikka as a dish, it is equally fascinating to know more about how chicken tikka originates and the roots of the same. While finding documentation for the exact recipe could be a tough job, it can be said that this dish originated from the Mughal era. One can say that the basic method of cooking meat over an open fire originated from none other than the Mughal kitchens. The method of marinating the chicken with special spices also dates back to the same era. The word “Tikka”, however, has Persian roots where it means “bits” or even “pieces”.
Consequently, the literal rendition becomes chunks or pieces of meat marinated in spices and yoghurt and then cooked to perfection under an open grill fire. You might be wondering what it is about Tikka that takes the lead. This is not just food. Tikka is like poetry written in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika. Every bite is a sensory explosion. It is where the crisp edges meet juicy interiors, and the flame-kissed surface tells a tale of its fiery journey.
For most people, one of the common reasons why they love chicken tikka is because of its juicy and succulent texture. Have you ever wondered why this dish is so juicy? The dish takes in a lot of juicy texture from the cut itself. For example, the thighs cut off the chicken are often more juicy and succulent than the breast pieces. However, once you have made the perfect cut, using the right spices is indeed extremely important.
The magic of the tikka kebab lies in the preparation indeed. The chicken is bathed in a rich marinade. This one usually includes yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chilli powder, lemon juice, and garam masala. Left to rest, the meat absorbs the soulful concoction. It ends up infusing every fibre with flavour. The yoghurt in the marinade ensures that the spices can blend, and at the same time, it tenderizes the meat as well.
After you have used the right marinade and let the meat rest for some time, in the next step, you will have to grill the tikka on an open fire. This is what provides the chicken with an amazing texture, and at the same time, you get the charred skin on top as well. Flames lick the meat, and it also ends up caramelizing the marinade. It also adds a slight char that defines tikka’s texture and taste. The result? A mouth-watering union of crisp exterior and melt-in-mouth tenderness inside.
When plated, chicken tikka is often served with a dash of chaat masala. It is also often decorated with a sprinkle of fresh coriander along with lemon wedges and mint chutney. The condiments served along with the tikka are a great reason why it gets the best of a bold punch. It is this punch that elevates the dish from street food to gourmet delight.
If you think that chicken tikka is the only popular dish that originates from the tandoor or open fire, then you might be mistaken. The humble indian seekh kebab is a popular option, and most people tend to have their favourites for gorging on a good chicken seekh kebab. This one is a different take on kebab where the minced meat is marinated with spices and then put to shape along the skewer.
The meat on the skewer is cooked on an open fire, and often the taste is enhanced with the help of herbs and special seekh kebab spices as well. One of the very popular reasons why a seekh kebab is so popular is because of the rich texture and the flavour of the seekh kebab. Even the lamb seekh kebab is equally popular, and it is a great option for those who love to have meaty kebabs that are not too heavy on the gut.
Did you know that it is the one dish that most people love to have along with their favourite kebab? Well, it is none other than a plateful of royal and flavorful biryani. One of the better-known things about biryani is that it is extremely rich, and the entire dish complements the kebab very well. You could have a biryani from each part of India, and all of them will have a unique take on the spices. Biryani is usually slow-cooked along with the meat, and it ensures that you do not lose out on the great flavours that the dish has to offer.
Biryani brings together long-grain basmati rice, saffron, fried onions, and a curated blend of spices. The chicken or lamb can be layered within or served on the side. This offers a contrast in textures and a harmony in flavour. When paired with grilled chicken tikka, every spoonful is elevated into something magical.
If you are someone who simply loves to enjoy a good chicken tikka but is not very sure about what your options are, then Tikka Nation should be the name to trust. With the best team in town, along with authentic recipes and ingredients, you get to have a gastronomic experience like no other. If you are someone who loves Indian food, especially chicken tikka, Biryani, or even kebab, then Tikka Nation is your best friend for sure.
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