Durban chicken curry is a popular winter dish with a spicy, sweet sauce. The dish has a savoury flavour and a tender chicken piece. Durban Indians usually consider their Durban chicken curry to be mild, but you can spice it up to suit your taste. To make a Durban style chicken curry, add a few dried spices to a pot of warm oil. Then, fry the garlic and add the chicken.
Durban Chicken Curry Recipe
South African Durban Chicken Curry
Durban Chicken Curry is a spicy South African delicacy that is perfect for the first timer in the world of Indian cuisine. This spicy, pungent dish consists of roasted chicken in a gravy with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, garlic and other spices. This recipe also calls for sambal and steamed basmati rice. Here's a look at how to make it yourself. It is easy, quick, and sure to please the crowd.
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Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 673kcal
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Equipment
Electric Cooker You can prepare this dish using an electric cooker if you're short on time.
Ingredients
- Oil
- Onions
- Thyme
- Cinnamon sticks
- Star aniseed
- Bay leaves
- Curry leaves
- Cumin seeds
- Garam masala
- Cumin powder
- Chili powder
- Ginger and garlic paste
- Tomatoes
- Water
- Salt
- Chicken
- Peas
- Sweet potatoes
- Coriander leaves
Instructions
- Chop up the tomatoes, onions, and leaves.
- Add oil to a pot and let it heat up
- Add onions, thyme, cinnamon sticks, star aniseed, bay leaves, curry leaves, cumin seeds, and stir thoroughly. Allow simmering until the onions are translucent.
- Add garam masala, cumin powder, coriander, turmeric powder, chili powder, ginger, and garlic paste and stir very well. Then, leave to simmer for 30 seconds.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and mix well. Then add ¼ of water and stir. Let the tomatoes cook till it melts. Add salt to taste and stir well.
- Add the chicken to the tomato mixture and mix thoroughly. Add little water to it.
- Stir over so often to prevent burning.
- When the chicken is almost cooked, add the peas and potatoes and mix. Let it cook until the potatoes are soft.
- Turn off the heat once the potatoes are soft.
- Garnish with some coriander leaves and serve hot.
Video
Notes
Care should be taken to ensure there is enough heat to cook to potatoes through. You will notice they absorb much of the water and become fluffy when ready.
Durban chicken curry can be prepared several ways. In a heavy pot, add onion, garlic, and curry leaves. Next, add spices such as cloves, cardamom, and ginger. When the onion and garlic are soft, add water until the mixture is covered by a few inches. Durban chicken curry should be simmered for ten minutes before serving. It is best to leave the sauce for several hours before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 4servings | Calories: 673kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 52g | Fat: 30g
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Slow Cooker Durban Chicken Curry
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (about 1 kg) boneless, skinless chicken pieces (thighs or breasts)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 2-3 tablespoons Durban curry spice blend
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan bread for serving
Instructions:
- Start by heating the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and Durban curry spice blend to the onions. Cook for a minute or two until the spices release their fragrance.
- Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker and add the onion-spice mixture over them.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chopped red bell pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir everything together.
- Set the slow cooker on low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavors.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for the remaining time.
- Once the chicken is tender and the curry has thickened, it’s ready to be served.
- Garnish your slow-cooked Durban Chicken Curry with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve it hot with rice or naan bread.
Tips for making Durban Chicken Curry
Cooking Tips for Perfect Durban Chicken Curry
- Choose the Right Curry Spice Blend: The key to an authentic Durban Chicken Curry is in the spice blend. Select a high-quality Durban curry spice blend with a balance of flavors. You can even experiment with homemade spice blends to suit your taste.
- Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken pieces in some of the curry spice blend, garlic, ginger, and a touch of yogurt for a few hours or overnight will infuse them with flavor. It’s an optional step, but it’s worth it if you have the time.
- Low and Slow: Whether you’re using a stovetop or slow cooker method, cooking the curry on low heat for a longer time allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender.
- Balancing Heat: Adjust the level of heat to your liking. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild curry spice blend. For a spicier experience, add extra chili or hot sauce.
- Coconut Milk: The creamy richness of coconut milk is essential. Use full-fat coconut milk for the best results, as it adds depth and creaminess to your curry.
- Avoid Overcooking: Once the chicken is tender, avoid overcooking, as it can make the meat tough. Coconut milk should be added about 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Your Durban Chicken Curry
- Accompaniments: Serve your curry with steamed rice, which is the classic choice. Alternatively, offer some naan bread or crusty rolls to mop up the flavorful sauce.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or coriander leaves over your curry for a burst of fresh flavor. Sliced red chili or green onion makes for great additional garnishes.
- Chutney: Offer a variety of chutneys on the side, such as mango chutney, lime pickle, or a simple cucumber raita. These condiments complement the spices and offer contrast.
- Beverages: Pair your Durban Chicken Curry with a cooling beverage, like a mango lassi or a cold beer, to balance the heat of the dish.
- Vegetable Sides: Add a side of fresh vegetables, such as a cucumber and tomato salad or some sautéed spinach. The freshness of the veggies complements the richness of the curry.
FAQs for Your Durban Chicken Curry Adventure
- Can I make this curry in advance?
Yes, this curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently before serving. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. - Can I freeze Durban Chicken Curry?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it. - Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables. - Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Of course. Adjust the chili content and type of curry spice blend to control the spiciness.
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Hello! I’m Black Pie, your culinary guide at Food And Meal, Hana Hotel Travel Company Limited. I'm passionate about unveiling the rich and diverse flavors of African cuisine to the world. Each recipe we explore is a celebration of culture, tradition, and exquisite taste. Join me on this delightful culinary journey, where we'll discover and share the hidden gems of African cooking together!
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