State of the World from NPR Who Invented Indian Butter Chicken? (Encore)
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Nov 29, 2024 Dia Hadid, NPR's investigative reporter, dives into the delicious and contentious world of butter chicken. She uncovers its historical roots linked to the 1947 partition of South Asia and two rival chefs from Peshawar claiming its creation. The conversation touches on the intertwining of culinary history with ownership disputes and the dish’s rise in global popularity, fueled by political figures and celebrity endorsements. It's a fascinating exploration of food, culture, and the legacy we savor.
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Motimahal's Origin
- Kundalal Jaggi and Kundalal Gujral, two cooks from Peshawar, fled to India during partition.
- They opened Motimahal in Delhi, serving dishes like butter chicken, which became popular, even with Prime Minister Nehru.
Competing Claims
- The original Motimahal owners sold the restaurant in the 90s.
- Both families created their own butter chicken franchises, leading to competing claims of invention.
The Lawsuit
- Jaggi's grandson claimed on TV that his grandfather invented butter chicken to use leftover tandoori chicken.
- The Gujral family filed a lawsuit, asserting their grandfather created the dish in Peshawar before partition.