Natu Kodi Pulusu

Ingredients

• - Main ingredient as required
• - 3 tbsp sesame oil or ghee
• - 2 large onions
• - Spices as required
• - Salt to taste

Method

1. Marinate country chicken: Cut 750g natu kodi (country chicken) into pieces. Mix with 1 cup yogurt, 1.5 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1.5 tsp red chilli powder, half tsp turmeric and salt. Marinate overnight.
2. Soak tamarind: Soak a lemon-sized tamarind in 1.5 cups warm water. Extract and strain.
3. Fry shallots: Heat 3 tbsp sesame oil. Add 2 cups sliced shallots. Fry on medium heat 12-15 minutes until deep golden.
4. Add ginger-garlic and tomatoes: Add 1.5 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, then 3 chopped tomatoes. Cook 8 minutes.
5. Add spice powders: Add 1.5 tsp red chilli powder, 1.5 tsp coriander powder. Fry 3 minutes.
6. Add marinated chicken: Add chicken with all yogurt. Fry on high heat 8-10 minutes.
7. Add tamarind water: Pour tamarind water and salt. Bring to a boil.
8. Pressure cook: Cover and pressure cook 6-7 whistles — country chicken needs longer cooking.
9. Finish: Open and cook uncovered 8-10 minutes until gravy thickens.
10. Serve: Adjust salt. Natu kodi pulusu is a rustic Andhra chicken stew with tamarind tanginess. Serve with rice.