Dinner

Chicken Drumsticks with Cashew and Turmeric (Kalmi Kebab) Recipe

BySophie Carsel February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

Introduction

These chicken drumsticks with cashew and turmeric, also known as kalmi kebab, offer a rich and fragrant blend of spices combined with creamy yogurt and cashew. The marinade tenderizes the meat while adding layers of vibrant flavor for a delicious and satisfying meal.

A large oval plate filled with golden brown grilled chicken drumsticks, arranged in multiple layers, some stacked on top of others. Scattered on and around the chicken pieces are thin, circular slices of red onion, adding a touch of purple color and contrast. Wedges of bright yellow lemon are placed in between the chicken pieces on the plate. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, partially covered by a mustard yellow cloth on the left side. In the background, there is a teal tray with gold designs holding a few glasses with red and clear liquids. To the right, there is a white plate with a dark purple napkin and silver fork and spoon placed on it. A lit candle in a small holder is also visible near the top of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

75g cashew nuts
1 lemon, juiced, plus extra wedges to serve
150g strained Greek yogurt (use regular Greek yogurt if you can’t find strained)
50g ginger, peeled and finely grated
8 garlic cloves, crushed
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
½ tsp carom seeds (ajwain), optional
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
¾ tsp cracked black peppercorns
50ml double cream
12 chicken drumsticks, skinned
50g ghee or 75ml sunflower oil
1 small red onion, cut into rings

Instructions

Step 1: Put the cashew nuts in a bowl and cover with enough boiling water to cover. Set aside for at least 2 hours to soften. Drain the nuts, then blend until smooth in a food processor with the lemon juice.
Step 2: Mix the cashew paste with the yogurt in a large bowl. Add the ginger, garlic, turmeric, chilli powder, carom seeds (if using), garam masala, cumin, black pepper, cream, and the juice of the lemon. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Using a sharp knife, make 2–3 slashes on each chicken drumstick. Coat the drumsticks thoroughly with the spiced yogurt marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow flavors to develop.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 7. Place the ghee or oil in a large roasting tin and heat it in the oven until very hot.
Step 5: Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer in the hot roasting tin. Spoon half of the marinade over them and return the tin to the oven.
Step 6: After 15 minutes, turn the drumsticks over and spoon the remaining marinade on top. Roast for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken juices run clear when pierced with a knife.
Step 7: Preheat the grill to its highest setting. Grill the chicken for 3–4 minutes until browned and slightly charred.
Step 8: Transfer the chicken to a serving dish, scatter with red onion rings, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

If you can’t find carom seeds (ajwain), you can omit them; the dish will still be flavorful.
To make your own strained yogurt, hang full-fat Greek yogurt in a muslin bag for 2–3 hours to remove excess whey.
For extra richness, replace the double cream with coconut cream for a subtle twist.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The chicken is best eaten fresh for maximum flavor and tenderness.

How to Serve

A large oval plate filled with around twelve pieces of grilled chicken drumsticks and wings, with a golden crispy texture and some darker charred spots. The chicken is topped with several thin rings of purple-red onion scattered evenly across. Four lemon wedges are placed around the chicken on the plate, adding bright yellow highlights. The plate is set on a white marbled texture with a folded warm mustard-yellow cloth lying to the left. A small glass candle holder with a lit candle is near the top right of the plate. To the right of the frame, there's a drink tray with colorful glasses, and a white plate with a dark blue napkin and gold cutlery rests below it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Thighs may take slightly less time, while breasts can dry out if overcooked, so watch carefully.

What can I substitute for strained Greek yogurt?

You can use plain Greek yogurt or regular plain yogurt; just keep in mind the marinade might be a bit thinner and less creamy. Straining yogurt removes extra liquid, which helps the marinade cling better to the chicken.