Island-Style Curry Chicken: A Trinidadian Twist

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Trinidad curry chicken, a fiery dance of flavors, has long captivated taste buds worldwide. Its vibrant blend of spices, tender meat, and aromatic vegetables is a testament to the island nation’s rich culinary heritage. Inspired by this classic, we’re taking a culinary journey, infusing it with global influences to create a truly extraordinary dish: Curry Carnival.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

  • Trini Curry Chicken Recipe by Baidawi - Mmhmm  EatAhFood
    Trini Curry Chicken Recipe by Baidawi – Mmhmm EatAhFood

    Image Source: eatahfoodtt.com

    Preparation Process:

    1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
    2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a little oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened and fragrant.
    3. Add the Spices: Stir in the remaining curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and cloves. Cook for 30 seconds, or until the spices become aromatic.
    4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
    5. Create the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, vegetable broth, and bell peppers. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
    6. Season and Serve: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

    Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    A Global Feast: Serve Curry Carnival with a side of fragrant basmati rice, a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

  • A Mexican Fiesta: Pair the curry with warm corn tortillas, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime juice.
  • An Indian Night: Accompany the dish with naan bread, raita, and a cooling cucumber salad.

  • A Cultural Tapestry

    Curry Carnival is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Trinidad, the richness of Indian cuisine, and the tropical notes of Southeast Asian dishes. The coconut milk, a staple in many tropical cuisines, adds a creamy richness to the curry. The fiery heat of the cayenne pepper, a Caribbean favorite, balances the sweetness of the coconut milk.

    As we savor each bite of this global fusion feast, we celebrate the diversity of cultures and the universal language of food. With every spoonful, we embark on a culinary adventure, a journey that transcends borders and unites taste buds.