Authentic Goan Chicken Cafreal Recipe: Bursting with Flavor!

Introduction:

Chicken Cafreal is a popular Goan dish known for its vibrant green color and flavorful spices. Originating from the coastal state of Goa in India, this dish showcases the unique blend of Portuguese and Indian culinary influences. In this recipe, succulent pieces of chicken are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and herbs and then cooked to perfection.

Recipe in a Short Video:

Ingredients:

• 700 grams chicken, thighs and legs
• 1/2 bunch of coriander leaves (cilantro), roughly chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled
• 8-10 green chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 tablespoon cumin seeds 
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 inch cinnamon stick
• 4-5 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
  
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Salt to taste
• 6 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 potato - medium or large
  

Directions:

Preparing Chicken Cafreal:

• In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh coriander leaves, green chilies, bay leaf, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, poppy seeds, cinnamon, cloves, turmeric powder, salt and lime juice. Grind the ingredients into a smooth paste without adding water.

• In a bowl, place the chicken pieces and add the freshly ground spice paste. Mix well, ensuring that the chicken is coated evenly with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least an hour in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.

• Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces along with any remaining marinade. Allow the chicken to cook for 10 mins and make sure to turn the chicken pieces occasionally to cook them evenly.
  

• Add the spice paste residue to the pan and cover cook the chicken for 5 mins or until it is cooked through or tender.
  

• Once the chicken is cooked, increase the heat to high and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, flipping the chicken constantly. This will help to brown and slightly char the chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor.
  

• Remove the Chicken Cafreal from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot with steamed rice or crusty bread along with the fried potato slices. Garnish with some fresh coriander leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Preparing Fried Potatoes:

• Slice the potatoes while the chicken is cooking. Make sure the potato slices are neither too thick nor too thin.
  
• In another pan, heat oil for shallow frying and add the sliced potatoes into the pan.
• Add salt to the potatoes and allow them to cook well or until it turns golden brown on both sides.
• Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to the serving plate.
  

Conclusion:

Inspired by the flavors of Goa, Chicken Cafreal is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines Portuguese and Indian influences. The chicken is marinated in a blend of fresh coriander, spices, and vinegar, resulting in a burst of flavors. Served with rice or bread, this authentic Goan recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant color and tantalizing taste. Bring the taste of Goa to your kitchen with this delicious Chicken Cafreal recipe.