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Method

1. Blend the garlic, ginger, vegetable oil and 4 tablespoons water to a purée in a food processor.

2. Heat the ghee in a heavy-based saucepan over a medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger purée and fry for 1-2 minutes, then add the cardamom pods, bay leaves and cinnamon sticks.

3. Add the onions and fry for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly browned.

4. Add the salt and 500ml/17fl oz water. Bring the mixture to the boil, then reduce the heat until it is simmering. Half-cover the pan with the lid and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the water has nearly evaporated.

5. Stir the onion mixture, then add another 500ml/17fl oz water. Simmer, half-covered, as before, for 12-15 minutes.

6. Repeat this process 5 more times - this draws all of the natural sweetness from the onions and helps break them down to sweet and silky sauce.

7. Add the chicken pieces and cover with 250ml/9fl oz water. Bring the water to the boil, then reduce the temperature until it is simmering. Cover the pan with the lid and cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. (The chicken is cooked through if the juices run clear when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced with a skewer and no trace of pink remains.)

8. Serve in bowls with steamed pilau rice.