There is something about the combination of fresh ginger and cilantro that tastes very Indian, very Delhi, to me, very much like home. In India, where few people have ovens, the chicken is browned first with the spices in a pan and then cooked on top of the stove over a low flame. I have, over the years, mastered making it in the oven, only because it requires much less effort and the results are exactly the same. This chicken may be served hot, with rice or breads (pita bread would be fine too), a green vegetable, and black beans served on the side, but it is also excellent when cold and perfect for picnics.
Ingredients
Serves 4–5
3 1/2 pounds chicken legs, separated into drumsticks and thighs (5 legs)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Freshly ground black pepper, generous amounts
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 teaspoon garam masala, (homemade is best, but store-bought will do)
1 teaspoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
2 tablespoons plain yogurt, preferably the acidophilus variety sold in health-food stores
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (do not use the coarser stems)