Ah, butter chicken. The mere mention of this dish conjures up images of creamy, tomato-laden gravy clinging to tender morsels of chicken, a symphony of warm spices dancing on your tongue. In Delhi, the capital of India, butter chicken transcends mere sustenance – it’s a cultural touchstone, a beloved comfort food, and a source of endless debate about who makes the absolute best.
Fear not, fellow curry connoisseurs! We’ve embarked on a butter chicken odyssey, traversing the bustling streets and hidden lanes of Delhi to identify the top 5 contenders for your butter chicken bliss. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through these culinary havens, each offering a unique interpretation of this iconic dish.
Moti Mahal: The Legendary Butter Chicken Origin Story
We begin our pilgrimage at Moti Mahal, a restaurant steeped in history and whispered to be the birthplace of butter chicken itself. Established in 1931, Moti Mahal claims culinary legend Kundan Lal Jaggi, a.k.a. “Tundey”, perfected the dish here in the 1950s. The Moti Mahal butter chicken boasts a rich, tomato-based gravy with a hint of sweetness, its velvety texture enveloping succulent tandoori chicken pieces. While traditionalists might find the gravy slightly milder on the spice front, the addition of a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of red chilli flakes from their iconic silver containers is all it takes to elevate the dish to fiery perfection.
Havemore: Where Butter Chicken Meets Modern Flair
Havemore in Pandara Market takes a contemporary approach to butter chicken, without compromising on the classics. Their version features succulent, boneless chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked in a tandoor for a smoky kiss. The gravy, boasting a vibrant red hue, is a delightful interplay of sweet and tangy, with a touch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) adding a unique depth of flavour. Havemore’s butter chicken is best enjoyed with their selection of fluffy naan or butter roti, perfect for scooping up every last morsel of that delectable gravy.
Gulati: The Cult Favourite with a Fiery Legacy
Gulati in Pandara Road is a Delhi institution, famed for its legendary butter chicken and its fiery avatar, the “chicken masala. Their butter chicken is a slow-cooked masterpiece, where the chicken simmers in a richly spiced gravy until it practically falls off the bone. The gravy itself is a complex dance of flavours, with a noticeable kick of heat that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Be warned, spice enthusiasts – Gulati’s butter chicken is not for the faint of heart! But for those who crave a fiery adventure, it’s a must-try.
Minar: Unveiling the Secrets of Mughlai Cuisine
Minar in Connaught Place transports you to the heart of Mughlai cuisine, where butter chicken takes centre stage. Their version features large chunks of chicken marinated in yogurt and a blend of aromatic spices, cooked in a clay oven for an extra layer of smokiness. The gravy is a revelation – a symphony of tomatoes, onions, and cashew paste, boasting a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy. A sprinkle of garam masala adds a touch of warmth, making Minar’s butter chicken a truly well-rounded experience.
Lazeez Affaire: A Culinary Gem with Global Recognition
Lazeez Affaire in Connaught Place might be a newcomer on the Delhi butter chicken scene, but it has already garnered a loyal following and international acclaim, even being featured on the Netflix series “Ugly Delicious. Their butter chicken is a testament to culinary innovation, boasting a unique blend of spices that creates a complex and flavourful gravy. The chicken is cooked to perfection, remaining juicy and tender despite its time in the tandoor. Lazeez Affaire’s butter chicken is best enjoyed with their selection of gourmet Indian breads, like the cheese naan or the garlic naan, offering an indulgent and flavourful experience.
