Natu Kodi Curry

Natu Kodi Curry Recipe

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • Natu Kodi (country chicken) – 1 kg (cleaned and cut)

  • Onions – 3 large (finely chopped)

  • Tomatoes – 2 large (chopped)

  • Green chilies – 3 (slit)

  • Turmeric – ½ tsp

  • Salt – 1 tsp

  • Red chili powder – 1 tsp

For Masala:

  • Ginger garlic paste – 1½ tbsp

  • Curry leaves – 2 sprigs

  • Coriander powder – 2 tsp

  • Red chili powder – 1½ tsp (adjust to taste)

  • Garam masala – 1 tsp

  • Fresh coriander – a handful (chopped)

  • Oil – 4 tbsp (preferably groundnut or sunflower oil)

  • Water – as needed

Optional:

  • 1 tsp poppy seeds paste or 2 tbsp coconut paste for thicker gravy

Preparation:

1. Marinate the Chicken

  • In a bowl, add cleaned country chicken, turmeric, salt, chili powder, and ginger garlic paste.

  • Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is better for tenderness).

2. Prepare the Masala Base

  • Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed kadai.

  • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

  • Add curry leaves, green chilies, and ginger garlic paste.

  • Fry till raw smell disappears.

3. Cook the Chicken

  • Add the marinated chicken pieces to the onion mixture.

  • Fry on medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring well.

  • Add chopped tomatoes, salt, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder.

  • Cover and cook until tomatoes turn soft and the oil starts separating.

4. Simmer

  • Add about 1–2 cups of water (based on how much gravy you want).

  • Cover and cook on low flame for 30–45 minutes or until chicken becomes tender (country chicken takes time).

  • Stir occasionally and check for water. Add more if needed.

5. Final Touch

  • Once the chicken is cooked, add garam masala and optional coconut/poppy seed paste.

  • Simmer for 5 more minutes.

  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.