Til Diya Murgi
A unique and flavorful chicken curry from Assam, made with a rich, nutty paste of black sesame seeds. Tender chicken and potatoes are simmered in a dark, aromatic gravy, offering a delightful taste of Northeast India.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate Chicken & Prepare Sesame Paste
- b.In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with lemon juice, 1/4 tsp of the turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp of the salt. Mix well and set aside to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- c.While the chicken marinates, dry roast the black sesame seeds in a pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes until they become aromatic and start to pop. Do not let them burn.
- d.Remove the seeds from the heat, let them cool completely, then transfer to a grinder. Add a few tablespoons of water and grind to a very smooth, thick paste. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium-high heat until it is fragrant and just begins to smoke. Reduce the heat to medium.
- c.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown.
- d.Add the ginger paste and garlic paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Chicken
- b.Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Increase the heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until it's lightly browned on all sides.
- c.Stir in the remaining 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder and the optional red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to coat the chicken.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine Ingredients
- b.Add the cubed potatoes and mix well. Cook for 2 minutes.
- c.Stir in the prepared black sesame paste and the slit green chilies. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously, until the paste is well-cooked and you see oil separating at the edges.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer the Curry
- b.Pour in 2 cups of warm water and add the remaining 1 tsp of salt. Stir everything together to combine.
- c.Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- d.If the gravy is too thick, add a little more warm water. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Once cooked, turn off the heat. Check for seasoning and adjust salt if needed.
- c.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Let the curry rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- d.Serve hot with steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To reduce the pungency of mustard oil, heat it until it reaches its smoking point, then let it cool slightly before adding ingredients.
- 2Ensure the sesame paste is ground as finely as possible for a smooth, non-gritty gravy. Soaking the roasted seeds in warm water for 15 minutes before grinding can help.
- 3Do not over-roast the sesame seeds, as they will turn bitter and spoil the taste of the curry.
- 4For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken for a longer period, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- 5This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Replace chicken with 400g of firm tofu, paneer, or mixed vegetables like mushrooms and sweet potatoes. For a vegan version, use tofu or vegetables.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a richer, creamier texture, add 2 tablespoons of cashew paste along with the sesame paste during the cooking process.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This recipe also works well with mutton (goat meat). Increase the simmering time to 45-50 minutes or use a pressure cooker to ensure the meat is tender.
Flavor TwistFlavor Twist
Add a small piece of jaggery (about 1 tsp, grated) to the gravy to balance the slight bitterness of the sesame seeds and add a subtle sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Packed with Minerals
Black sesame seeds are a powerhouse of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. These are vital for maintaining strong bones, producing energy, and supporting healthy blood circulation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The use of traditional spices like turmeric (curcumin), ginger, and garlic provides potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body and boost the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Til Diya Murgi is a traditional and iconic chicken curry from the state of Assam in Northeast India. It is distinguished by its unique dark color and a rich, nutty, earthy flavor derived from a paste of black sesame seeds (kala til).