Description
Mouthwatering African Chicken Curry whisks spice lovers through coastal Kenyan kitchens with creamy coconut richness. Fragrant herbs and tender chicken create a delectable journey you cannot resist exploring.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) chicken thighs or drumsticks
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt
- Black pepper
Base and Aromatics:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
- 2 medium tomatoes
Liquids:
- 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) coconut cream
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Warm vegetable oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, creating a perfect sautéing environment.
- Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot pan, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown exterior. Transfer browned chicken to a separate plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 5 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to release their aromatic essence for about 60 seconds.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes and simmer for 6-7 minutes, watching them gradually break down and create a rich base.
- Sprinkle cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala into the mixture, stirring thoroughly to activate their robust flavors for 2-3 minutes.
- Reintroduce browned chicken to the pan, then pour coconut milk and chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.
- Cover and reduce heat to low, allowing the curry to gently simmer for 25-30 minutes at 180°F until chicken becomes supremely tender.
- Optional: Swirl in coconut cream to enhance the dish’s luxurious texture and depth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, tasting to perfect the flavor profile.
- Finish by scattering fresh cilantro across the surface for a vibrant, herbaceous touch.
- Present the Kuku Paka alongside fluffy rice or warm, pillowy flatbread.
Notes
- Spice Intensity Adjustment: Modify chili powder quantity to control heat level, ensuring the curry matches your personal spice tolerance.
- Protein Flexibility: Substitute chicken with tofu, fish, or vegetables for diverse dietary preferences like vegetarian or pescatarian options.
- Coconut Milk Alternatives: Use low-fat coconut milk or dairy-free alternatives like almond milk for lighter, health-conscious versions of the dish.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Transform this recipe into a hands-off meal by transferring ingredients to a slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours for tender, deeply flavored results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 365 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg