The Science Behind Tandoori Chicken Red Color: A Closer Look

Did you want to know WHY IS TANDOORI CHICKEN RED colour? If yes then this article is for you! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind the tandoori chicken’s red color.

Whether you are a seasoned tandoori chicken fan or just a curious foodie, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into the science of one of India’s most popular dishes. So, let’s get started and discover the science behind tandoori chicken’s mouth-watering red color.

What is tandoori chicken?

Tandoori Chicken is one of the famous Indian dishes & it is made by marinating chicken in a blend of spices, yoghurt, and lemon juice.

This chicken is typically cooked in a tandoor, & in the oven that is heated to high temperatures. It is a dish that is juicy, tender and full of flavour.

The red color of tandoori chicken: What gives it?

The red color of tandoori chicken is because of Kashmiri red chilli powder.

This Kashmiri red chilli is made from dried and ground Kashmiri red chillies.

It is known for its deep red color.

This Kashmiri red chilli is used in many Indian dishes & it is most important in tandoori chicken.

How to cook tandoori chicken at home

If you’re a fan of tandoori chicken and want to try making it at home, you’re in luck – it’s easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe that you can try:

### Ingredients:

– 1 cup of plain yoghurt

– 1 tbsp of cumin

– 2 lbs of chicken (breast or thigh)

– 1 tbsp of coriander

– 1 tsp of turmeric

– 2 tbsp of Kashmiri red chilli powder

– 1 tsp of garam masala

– One tsp of salt

– 1 lemon, juiced

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 inch of ginger, grated

### Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the yoghurt, spices, salt, lemon juice, garlic, and ginger.

2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

3. Preheat your oven to 450°F.

4. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.

5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the wire rack.

6. Bake for 20-25 Minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

7. Serve with naan bread, rice, and your favourite chutney.

Variations of tandoori chicken

While the classic tandoori chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are many variations that you can try. Here are a few ideas:

– Tandoori chicken tikka: This recipe calls for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces before marinating and cooking. It’s a great option for parties and gatherings.

– Tandoori chicken wings: If you’re a fan of chicken wings, you’ll love this recipe. ‘Simply marinate chicken wings in the tandoori chicken marinade and bake until crispy.

– Tandoori chicken salad: For a lighter option, try making a tandoori chicken salad. ‘Simply grill or bake chicken breasts and serve them over a bed of greens with your favourite toppings.

Tandoori chicken recipes from around the world

Tandoori chicken may be an Indian dish, but it’s beloved around the world. Here are a few international takes on this classic recipe:

– Tandoori chicken pizza: This fusion dish combines the flavours of tandoori chicken with the convenience of pizza. It’s a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

– Tandoori Chicken Tacos: Try making Tandoori chicken tacos for a Mexican twist on Tandoori chicken tacos. ‘Simply fill tortillas with sliced tandoori chicken, cabbage slaw, and your favourite toppings.

– Tandoori chicken burger: This recipe combines the flavours of tandoori chicken with the classic burger. It’s a great option for a backyard barbecue.

Conclusion

Tandoori chicken is a dish that’s as delicious as it is colourful. The vibrant red hue of tandoori chicken is due to a spice called Kashmiri red chilli powder, which undergoes a chemical reaction with the chicken’s proteins during cooking. While tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish, it’s also beloved around the world & can be prepared in many different ways. Whether you’re a fan of the classic recipe or want to try something new, tandoori chicken is a dish that’s sure to please.