How to make Chicken Karahi

Why cooks start here

Chicken Karahi is cooked the way Peshawar and Lahore cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a pakistani family cook actually puts it on the table.

Chicken Karahi is a beloved staple in Pakistani homes, especially in the bustling cities of Peshawar and Lahore. This dish is often the centerpiece for family dinners, where tradition and taste are passed down through generations. Each household has its own cherished version, with salt assessed by instinctive pinches and a generous hand with the oil, reflecting the rich, hearty flavors that define this regional specialty. The taste of Chicken Karahi is a vibrant interplay of tender chicken simmered with tomatoes and the invigorating kick of green chilies. The cumin and ginger-garlic paste infuse it with warmth, while fresh cilantro adds a final, fragrant touch. Enjoyed with naan or rice, it is a dish meant for sharing, inviting everyone to indulge in its robust, aromatic delight.