Lahori Chargha is a mouthwatering dish that originated in the bustling streets of Lahore, Pakistan. This recipe brings together a delightful blend of spices and flavors, resulting in a succulent and crispy whole chicken dish that will surely impress your taste buds.
Dating back to the Mughal era, Lahori Chargha was originally prepared in royal kitchens, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region. Today, it has become a beloved street food and a popular dish served at special occasions and gatherings.
Despite its royal origins, Lahori Chargha is surprisingly easy to make, making it an excellent choice for home cooks looking to explore the vibrant world of Pakistani cuisine.
With a marinade featuring a harmonious mix of yogurt, garlic, ginger, and a variety of aromatic spices, this recipe promises to elevate the humble chicken into a gourmet delight.
While the recipe may seem complex at first glance, fear not! With a bit of patience and a handful of pantry staples, you’ll be well on your way to creating your own Lahori Chargha masterpiece.
Expert Tip: When frying the Lahori Chargha, maintain a consistent oil temperature to achieve a crispy exterior without burning. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
Chicken Whole: The star of the dish, providing juicy and tender meat that absorbs the flavors of the marinade.
Yoghurt: Adds a creamy texture to the marinade while tenderizing the chicken.
Garlic Paste: Infuses the marinade with a robust, savory flavor.
Ginger Paste: Adds warmth and depth to the marinade, complementing the other spices.
Green Chilli Paste: Provides a subtle heat and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
Black Pepper: Adds a mild, earthy heat and aroma.
Garam Masala: A blend of spices that adds complexity and depth to the marinade.
Cumin Powder: Offers a warm, nutty flavor that pairs well with the other spices.
Kashmiri Chilli: Adds vibrant color and a mild, fruity heat to the marinade.
Turmeric Powder (Haldi): Imparts a bright yellow color and adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Lemon Juice: Provides a tangy brightness to the marinade, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Egg: Helps bind the marinade ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive coating on the chicken.
Oil: Used for frying the chicken, resulting in a crispy exterior and moist interior.
Expert Tip: For extra tender and juicy chicken, pierce the chicken all over with a fork before marinating to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Expert Tip: Ensure that the chicken is thoroughly coated with the marinade, using your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken for maximum flavor penetration.
Yes, you can definitely use chicken pieces such as drumsticks or thighs instead of a whole chicken. Adjust the marinating and cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken pieces are cooked through and flavorful.
While traditionally Lahori Chargha is deep-fried for that crispy exterior, you can certainly bake it for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. However, if time allows, marinating overnight in the refrigerator will result in even more flavorful and tender chicken.
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Place the marinated chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
The Lahori Chargha is cooked through when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced with a knife, and the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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I love to cook! I want to share with you my favourite, delicious family-friendly recipes. I want to inspire you to create fantastic food for your family every day.
Latest comments (2)
love this recipe ! Will surely give it a try
Thank you! Let me know how it turns out for you 🙂