Diced Chicken with Pomegranate Seeds

Dried pomegranate seeds are an important part of Indian pantry. They are

sour in taste and very fragrant and have to be well ground when used in

curries because of their texture. The intense flavor they impart to the dishes

has no substitute.

SERVES 4

2 teaspoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil

salt to taste                                                                             

1 pound chicken breast cut into into 1/4-inch pieces    

2 tablespoons vegetable oil                                              

2 tablespoons cumin seeds

A 3-inch cinnamon stick

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

3 tablespoons dried, ground pomegranate seeds

1 tablespoon garam masala

1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds

In a large non reactive bowl, mix the minced garlic, ginger, tomato sauce,basil, and salt till it is smooth and consistent. Add the diced chicken andmix, coating all the pieces of chicken with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and cinnamon stick and stir for 3 minutes until they are brown and aromatic. Add the onions and cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until it is browned—about 7 minutes.

Add the marinated chicken and stir until the chicken is golden brown and dry. Add the ground pomegranate seeds and garam masala. Stir till they are well mixed.

Transfer to a serving dish, lightly mixed with the fresh pomegranate seeds.

.