Chicken Cafreal Recipe – A Goan Delight Bursting with Spicy Herb Flavours

Welcome to the world of chicken cafreal, where bold flavours meet simplicity. This Goan dish is a crowd-pleaser! Originating from the sunny beaches of Goa, chicken cafreal boasts an irresistible blend of spices. Its vibrant green hue is a feast for the eyes, and the taste? Oh, it’s pure magic. Let’s dive into this chicken cafreal recipe and make your kitchen the happiest place on Earth.

Ingredients for Chicken Cafreal Recipe

Gather these fresh and simple ingredients to create a masterpiece:

• 1 kg FreshToHome Chicken (preferably whole or leg pieces)
• 2 cups fresh coriander leaves
• 10-12 garlic cloves
• 1-inch ginger
• 4 green chillies (adjust for spice)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander seeds
• 1 tsp peppercorns
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 3 tbsp oil for cooking

That’s it. Simple, right? Now let’s turn these into the ultimate chicken cafreal.

Step-by-Step Chicken Cafreal Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cafreal Masala

Blend coriander, ginger, garlic, green chillies, cumin, coriander seeds, peppercorns, cloves, and cinnamon into a fine paste. Add vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust salt. This is your magic potion, also known as cafreal masala.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Coat the chicken with the cafreal masala. Massage it in like you’re giving it a spa day. Let it rest for 4-6 hours or overnight. The longer, the better.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan. Sear the marinated chicken on high heat until it’s golden on both sides. The aroma will blow your mind.

 

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook in its juices for 20-25 minutes. Flip occasionally. The masala will cling to the chicken like its soulmate.

Step 5: Serve and Devour

Your Goan chicken cafreal is ready. Serve it hot with crusty bread, rice, or just as is.

Tips to Nail Your Cafreal Recipe

1. Use fresh herbs for the best flavour.
2. Don’t skimp on marination time.
3. Pair with a chilled drink for a true Goan vibe.
4. Double the masala to keep some for a quick fix next time.

What is Chicken Cafreal?

If you’ve never tasted chicken cafreal, you’re in for a treat. This dish is a Goan classic with roots in Portuguese cuisine. Think succulent chicken marinated in a zesty, herbaceous cafreal masala. It’s spicy, aromatic, and perfect for impressing your dinner guests. Whether you’re a cooking newbie or a seasoned chef, this recipe will make you a Goan food ambassador in no time.

The Secret Sauce: Cafreal Masala

The hero of this dish is the cafreal masala. It’s a blend of coriander, mint, green chillies, garlic, and spices. This green powerhouse coats the chicken, infusing it with intense flavours. Pro tip: Make extra masala and freeze it for later. You’ll thank yourself when cravings hit.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Cafreal

It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience. The flavours transport you straight to Goa. The spicy, tangy, and herbaceous notes will dance on your palate. Plus, this chicken cafreal recipe is easy, quick, and always impressive.

Cooking chicken cafreal Goa style is like bringing the beach to your plate. And who doesn’t love a bit of sunshine in their meal?

Fun Facts About Chicken Cafreal

Did you know the Portuguese introduced this dish to Goa? They called it Galinha Cafreal. Over time, it became our beloved Goan chicken cafreal. It’s a dish with history, personality, and plenty of spice.

A Taste of Goa at Home

When you make chicken cafreal, you’re not just cooking. You’re creating memories, telling a story, and savouring tradition. This cafreal recipe is a testament to Goa’s rich culinary heritage.

With every bite, you’ll taste the freshness of the herbs, the warmth of the spices, and the love that goes into it.

Variations to Explore

Not a chicken fan? Substitute it with fish or paneer for a twist on this classic. But if you ask us, nothing beats the OG chicken cafreal masala hugging tender chicken.

Make it Today!

Why wait? Get your hands on some fresh chicken and whip up this gem. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, chicken cafreal always hits the spot.

Closing Thoughts

Chicken cafreal isn’t just a dish; it’s an adventure. It’s about blending cultures, exploring spices, and tasting Goa in every bite. So, grab your apron, turn up the music, and make this magical chicken cafreal recipe today.

Your taste buds will thank you. And hey, don’t forget to share your masterpiece on Instagram. Let the world know you’ve mastered the art of Goan chicken cafreal!