Nigella Lawson Chicken & Apricot Masala

Step 1

Soak apricots overnight in 2 cups cold water, or cover with 2 cups hot water and soak until swollen and softened, 2 to 3 hours.

Step 2

Prepare masala: In a small bowl, combine hot pepper flakes, cumin, coriander, cloves, cardamom, garlic and ginger.

Step 3

Add 1/4 cup water, and stir to make a paste.

Step 4

Set aside.

Step 5

In a large sauté pan over medium heat, heat cinnamon stick.

Step 6

Add onions and salt, and sauté until onions begin to soften, 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7

Add masala, and stir.

Step 8

Add chicken, and stir for about 5 minutes.

Step 9

Add apricots and their soaking liquid, diced tomatoes and diluted tomato paste.

Step 10

Cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 30 minutes.

Step 11

Check cooking liquid about halfway through; if chicken is covered with liquid, remove cover for remainder of cooking.

Step 12

Transfer to a large bowl, sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.