How to Make Butter Chicken with Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Butter Chicken with Rice, known locally as Ayam Mentega dengan Nasi, is a beloved dish that beautifully fuses the aromatic spices of North Indian cuisine with the multicultural flavors of Malaysia. In Malaysia, this dish has become a favorite at both mamak stalls and home kitchens, often adapted to include wholesome, local ingredients such as santan (coconut milk), fresh coriander, and pandan leaves for a unique twist. The vegetarian version replaces chicken with hearty tofu, making it suitable for plant-based diets while maintaining all the comforting, creamy flavors. This dish features tender tofu cubes cooked in a fragrant, spiced tomato and yogurt-based sauce, lightly enriched with a touch of butter and santan for that signature silky texture. Served over steaming hot rice, it is both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for lunch, Ayam Mentega dengan Nasi celebrates the diversity of Malaysian cuisine and the country’s tradition of blending flavors and cultures on a single plate. Its mild yet aromatic taste makes it a crowd-pleaser, especially for those seeking a healthier, vegetarian lunch option.
Bahan
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Step 1 · Pat dry and cube the tofu
Pat dry and cube the tofu. Lightly pan-fry in a non-stick pan with a little oil until golden on all sides. Set aside.
Step 2 · In the same pan
In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and ginger. Fry until fragrant.
Step 3 · Add tomato puree
Add tomato puree, garam masala, coriander powder, and chili powder. Stir well and cook until the oil separates and the sauce thickens.
Step 4 · Lower the heat
Lower the heat. Mix in yogurt and santan, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add salt to taste.
Step 5 · Return the tofu to the pan
Return the tofu to the pan. Add the pandan leaf (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavors.
Step 6 · Remove from heat
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Step 7 · Serve hot over steamed rice
Serve hot over steamed rice.
Mengapa resipi ini sihat
By substituting cream with low-fat yogurt and using less butter, this recipe reduces overall calories and saturated fat. Tofu provides lean protein, making the dish filling yet light. The addition of local ingredients such as santan and pandan leaf enhances flavor without excess calories, supporting weight management and heart health. It’s a wholesome option for a balanced Malaysian lunch.
Nota tentang tradisi
Butter Chicken with Rice is a staple at Malaysian-Indian eateries and is especially popular during lunch hours. While inspired by North Indian cuisine, Malaysian adaptations often use santan and pandan to add local flair. This dish symbolizes Malaysia's multicultural food heritage, blending Indian spices with Malay ingredients. It is commonly enjoyed in homes and restaurants, especially during family gatherings and festive occasions.