Chicken with Apricots and Potato Straws

1. First grind together all the ingredients for the masala in a coffee grinder and set aside.

2. Heat the ghee or oil into a large heavy -based pan until hot. Add the cinnamon sticks and allow to sizzle for a few seconds or so. Add the onions, garlic and ginger and cook until the onions turn golden brown.

3. Now add the masala and saute until the oil begins to separate from it. If the mixture begins to stick, add a dash of water and scrape across the bottom of the pan. Continue to stir-fry for a couple of minutes then add the tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes have incorporated well into the mixture.

4. Add the chicken and continue to saute for another 5 minutes. Now add the soaked apricot along with the soaking liquid. Bring to the boil, cover, simmer for approximately 5 minutes.

5. Add the lemon or lime juice along with the sugar, cover and continue to simmer until the chicken is tender. Stir in the coriander and adjust seasoning.

6. Drain and spread the potato juliennes onto a tea towel and pat dry.

7. Heat the oil in a deep pan or wok until hot, add the potato juliennes in batches. Fry until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Sprinkle with chilli powder and fold in some chopped coriander.

8. Serve the potato straws on top of the chicken or alongside.