Authentic Sri Lankan Chicken Curry Recipe with Aromatic Spices

Sri Lankan Chicken Curry Recipe: A Flavorful and Authentic Sri Lankan Delight

This Sri Lankan Chicken Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish, infused with a mix of bold spices and fragrant herbs. Made with tender chicken pieces and cooked in a flavorful blend of spices, it’s a perfect representation of Sri Lankan culinary traditions. Serve it alongside a steaming hot plate of Veechu Parotta, Ceylon Parotta, or Idiyappam with Coconut Milk for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Start by cleaning the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels and cut it into pieces, keeping the bones intact for added flavor. In a mixing bowl, add vinegar, salt, and red chili powder, and mix well. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture and ensure they are evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step is essential for infusing the chicken with flavors before cooking.

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2. Cooking the Curry:
   In a large, wide pan (preferably a clay pot for authenticity), heat sunflower oil over medium flame. Once hot, add finely chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and fragrant.

3. Add Fresh Herbs and Spices:
   To the sautéed onions, add lemongrass, pandan leaf, and curry leaves. Stir well to combine, allowing the herbs to release their flavors into the oil.

4. Cook the Tomato Puree:
   Next, add the pureed tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the puree thickens and oil starts to separate from the sides of the pan. This step will create a rich, flavorful base for your curry.

5. Combine the Chicken and Spices:
   Once the tomato mixture has thickened, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Stir the chicken for about 3 minutes, allowing it to sear slightly and absorb the flavors from the base. After this, add the coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir everything together so the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.

6. Simmer the Curry:
   Add 1 cup of water to the pan and stir again. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the curry to cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Adjust the water quantity based on the consistency you prefer for your curry – add more water for a thinner gravy or cook it longer for a thicker sauce.

7. Final Touches and Serving:
   Once the chicken is cooked through, check the seasoning and adjust salt and spice levels as necessary. Garnish with a few fresh curry leaves on top for a burst of flavor.

8. Serving Suggestions:
   Serve this flavorful Sri Lankan Chicken Curry hot with Veechu Parotta, Ceylon Parotta, or Idiyappam with Coconut Milk. These accompaniments complement the curry perfectly, making for a truly satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Sri Lankan Chicken Curry:

• Marination: Allow the chicken to marinate for a good amount of time to ensure the flavors are well absorbed. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful the curry will be.

• Clay Pot Cooking: If possible, use a clay pot for cooking. It helps the curry to retain heat evenly and intensifies the flavors, giving it an authentic touch.

• Spices: Adjust the spices according to your preference. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red chili powder. Conversely, reduce it for a milder curry.

• Herbs: Fresh curry leaves, lemongrass, and pandan leaf are essential for the authentic Sri Lankan taste. These herbs are packed with aroma and bring a unique flavor profile to the curry.

Enjoying Your Meal:

Sri Lankan Chicken Curry is a beautiful dish, perfect for a hearty dinner. Its bold flavors and rich sauce make it a favorite among curry lovers. The tender chicken, combined with the earthy spices and fresh herbs, create a mouthwatering experience that will transport you to the sunny shores of Sri Lanka with each bite.

For an unforgettable meal, pair it with the suggested traditional sides, and you’ll be sure to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delightful Sri Lankan feast.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this authentic recipe, and let the flavors of Sri Lanka brighten your dining table!