Fragrant Yogurt Braised Chicken

Fragrant Yogurt Braised Chicken
8 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
3 cups thinly sliced onions (3 medium)
1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic (4 large cloves)
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala, see note
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup sour cream
1/3 cup water
3 pounds chicken pieces (dark or white)
Salt to taste
Heat 4 tablespoons vegetable oil in large fry pan and saute onions until limp and golden, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and saute 2 more minutes.
Add coriander, red pepper, garam masala and stir rapidly for 1 minute. Add yogurt, sour cream and water and bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer mixture 5 minutes. Turn off heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Finely puree with hand blender or in food processor. Set aside.
In the same pan heat four tablespoons oil over medium heat. When oil is very hot add chicken pieces and saute, turning until they lose pink color. Add pureed mixture and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook chicken covered until very tender, about 45 minutes. Check often to ensure that sauce is not sticking to pan. Serve with rice.
Serves four to six.
Cook's note: McCormick now offers a garam masala blend; look for it in the spice aisle at the supermarket.
Nutrition values per serving: 485 calories, 24 g fat, 10 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 56 g protein, 138 mg cholesterol, 185 mg sodium.