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Yule Log Cake

  Ingredients For the Sponge Cake: 4 large eggs, separated 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (for egg whites) 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt For the Filling: 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled 2 tbsp powdered sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting: 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1 tsp unsalted butter (optional, for shine) For Decoration (Optional): Powdered sugar (for "snow") Chocolate shavings, berries, or sprigs of rosemary (for a festive touch) Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch (25x38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Whip the Egg Yolks : In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until thick and pale y...

Chicken Tikka Masala – Indian-style Chicken in a Creamy Tomato Sauce

 

Chicken Tikka Masala – Indian-style Chicken in a Creamy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:

    • In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder, and salt.
    • Add the chicken pieces, coating them well in the marinade.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken:

    • Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a skillet.
    • Grill or cook the marinated chicken pieces for 8-10 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly charred. Set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce:

    • Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
    • Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute.
    • Stir in cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder (if using). Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
    • Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, and season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.
  4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

    • Add the grilled or cooked chicken pieces to the sauce.
    • Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Serve:

    • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala!

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