Introduction
Butter Chicken Meatballs offer a delightful twist on the classic Indian dish. With a creamy, spiced sauce enveloping savory meatballs, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. The combination of aromatic spices and rich flavors brings warmth and comfort to the table. Served over fluffy basmati rice and garnished with fresh cilantro, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
Half of an onion, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic paste)
A small piece of fresh ginger, grated (or ginger paste)
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon cumin
One 14-ounce can crushed tomatoes or plain tomato sauce
1/2 cup water (more as needed later)
1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon sugar
20 ounces of cooked chicken or turkey meatballs (approximately 4 cups)
To Finish:
2 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup heavy cream (more to taste)
To Serve:
1 1/2 cups basmati rice, or precooked rice
1/4 cup fresh cilantro
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Rice
Cook the basmati rice according to the package directions. If using precooked rice, ensure it is heated thoroughly before serving.
Heat the Oil and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the avocado oil or olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the roughly chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes softened. Then, stir in the turmeric, smoked paprika, garam masala, and cumin, and cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes or plain tomato sauce along with the 1/2 cup of water. Stir in the kosher salt and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Blend the Sauce
Transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience.
Return Sauce and Heat Meatballs
Once the sauce is smooth, return it to the skillet. Add the cooked chicken or turkey meatballs to the sauce, and let everything simmer on low heat with a cover until the meatballs are warmed through.
Finish the Sauce
Stir in the butter and heavy cream to enrich the sauce, ensuring each meatball is coated in the creamy mixture.
Serve the Dish
Serve the butter chicken meatballs over the prepared basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and adjust the spiciness with cayenne or chili oil, if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the levels of salt, sugar, or spices according to your personal taste preferences.
Meat Alternatives
This recipe can also be made with vegetables or paneer instead of meatballs for a vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with naan or pita bread for a complete meal experience.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. In this recipe, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger with spices to enhance their flavors and soften their texture.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking technique where food is cooked in liquid at a low temperature, just below boiling. In this recipe, simmer the sauce with crushed tomatoes, water, salt, and sugar to meld the flavors together before puréeing.
Blending
Blending can be done using a blender or an immersion blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Use this technique to puree the sauce until smooth for a velvety texture in the final dish.
Melting
Melting refers to heating solid fats until they become liquid. In this recipe, melt the butter in the sauce to create a rich and creamy texture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the technique of adding decorative and flavorful elements to a dish before serving. In this recipe, fresh cilantro is used as a garnish to add color and fresh flavor to the butter chicken meatballs.
FAQ
What can I use instead of avocado oil?
You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil, vegetable oil, or any neutral cooking oil.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used but you’ll need to cook them down until they break apart and release their juices, which may take longer than using canned tomatoes.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
You can adjust the spiciness by adding cayenne pepper, chili oil, or other hot spices to taste.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it before adding the cooked meatballs.
What type of rice is best to serve with butter chicken?
Basmati rice is traditional and pairs well with the dish, but you can also use jasmine rice or any preferred variety of rice.
Conclusion
The Butter Chicken Meatballs served over basmati rice create a delightful fusion of flavors that blends spices, creaminess, and the comforting nature of rice. The rich sauce and tender meatballs make this dish a perfect meal for family gatherings or casual dinners. The option to adjust the spice level allows it to cater to various palates, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Curry
Switch out the meatballs for assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, cauliflower, and peas. Follow the same cooking method and enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal.
Chickpea Stew
Replace chicken meatballs with cooked chickpeas for a protein-packed vegan option. The hearty sauce complements the chickpeas beautifully.
Coconut Cream Chicken
In place of heavy cream, use coconut milk for a tropical twist. This change adds sweetness and richness, perfect for pairing with jasmine rice.
Butter Shrimp
Substitute the chicken meatballs with shrimp, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. The shrimp will absorb the flavors of the sauce and create a delightful seafood variant.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Use the butter chicken sauce as a filling for tacos. Add shredded cabbage and fresh cilantro for a delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Quinoa Bowl
Serve the butter chicken meatballs over quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed meal. Quinoa’s nuttiness pairs well with the creamy sauce, making for a nutritious option.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the butter chicken mixture to stuff bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender for a unique presentation and flavor combination.
