Curry Goat

Curry Goat Recipe from Jamaica with Spicy Ingredients

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Curry Goat is a popular dish in Caribbean cuisine, known for its rich and flavorful taste. This dish is made with tender goat meat cooked in a fragrant curry sauce, seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs. It is often served with rice and peas or roti for a hearty and satisfying meal.

History

Curry Goat has its roots in Indian cuisine, where curry dishes are a staple. The dish was brought to the Caribbean by Indian indentured laborers during the colonial period. Over time, it became a beloved dish in countries like Jamaica, Trinidad, and Guyana, where it is now a traditional favorite.

Ingredients

2.5 to 3 lb (1.36 kg) of goat meat, cut into cubes
vinegar
water
2 tbsp of curry powder
1.5 tsp of salt
1 tsp of black pepper
5 cloves of garlic, minced
2 stalks of scallion, sliced
2 sprigs of fresh thyme
1 large onion, sliced
3 pimiento seeds
1 scotch bonnet
1 small white potato, cubed
1 small carrot, sliced

How to prepare

Wash the meat with water and vinegar.
Place the meat in a bowl and season it with curry powder, salt, and pepper.
Add garlic, scallions, thyme, onion, pimento seeds, and pepper.
Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Add the seasoned meat to a pressure cooker and cover it with water.
Place the lid on the cooker and cook over medium heat until you hear a steam hissing sound.
Cook for 30 minutes (or cover with 2 cups of water and cook in a Dutch oven for 1 hour).
Halfway through the cooking process, turn the pressure cooker off and let it rest for about 5 minutes to reduce steam pressure.
Remove the lid and add potatoes and carrots.
Simmer, uncovered, for 10 more minutes or until the gravy thickens and the vegetables are cooked.
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Variations

Substitute goat meat with lamb or beef for a different flavor.
Add coconut milk for a creamy and rich curry sauce.
Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, okra, or squash for added texture and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the goat meat for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Use a pressure cooker for faster cooking, or a Dutch oven for a slower, more traditional method.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder and scotch bonnet pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- Stir the curry occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Curry Goat with rice and peas, roti, or bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use a pressure cooker for faster cooking or a Dutch oven for a slower, more traditional method.

- Simmer the curry on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.

- Adjust the seasoning and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or tofu instead of goat meat for a vegetarian version.

- Replace curry powder with a homemade curry paste for a more authentic flavor.

- Swap out potatoes and carrots for sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or plantains for a different twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the meat overnight for even more flavor.

- Cook the curry in advance and reheat before serving for a quick and easy meal.

- Freeze leftovers for future meals or meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Curry Goat in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs. - Arrange the rice and peas or roti on the side for a colorful and appetizing presentation. - Add a dollop of yogurt or chutney on top for a creamy and tangy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Curry Goat with a refreshing salad or coleslaw for a light and balanced meal.

- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or chutney for added flavor and texture.

- Enjoy with a cold beer, fruity cocktail, or tropical juice for a refreshing beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Curry Goat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months for future meals.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Curry Goat typically contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. It is a filling and satisfying meal that provides energy and nutrients.

Carbohydrates

Curry Goat is a low-carb dish, with only small amounts of carbohydrates coming from the vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Each serving contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in Curry Goat come from the goat meat and any added oils used in cooking. A serving of Curry Goat typically contains around 15-20 grams of fat, depending on the cut of meat and cooking method.

Proteins

Goat meat is a rich source of protein, making Curry Goat a protein-packed dish. Each serving contains approximately 25-30 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Curry Goat is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the peppers, vitamin A from the carrots, and iron from the goat meat. It also contains potassium, magnesium, and other essential nutrients.

Alergens

Curry Goat may contain allergens such as gluten (if served with roti), soy (if soy sauce is used), and dairy (if yogurt or cream is added). Be sure to check for allergens and adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, Curry Goat is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Curry Goat is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its rich and aromatic flavors, tender meat, and hearty sauce, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this Caribbean classic with rice, roti, or bread for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Curry Goat. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my grandparents. My grandmother was a talented cook, known throughout the village for her delicious meals. She had learned to cook from her own mother, who had passed down recipes that had been in our family for generations.

One day, a neighbor came over to our house with a basket full of fresh vegetables and herbs. She had just returned from a trip to the city and had brought back some new spices and ingredients she had picked up at the market. Among them was a small packet of curry powder, a fragrant blend of turmeric, coriander, cumin, and other spices that I had never seen before.

My grandmother's eyes lit up when she saw the curry powder. She thanked our neighbor profusely and immediately set to work preparing a special meal for us that night. She decided to make Curry Goat, a dish she had never cooked before but had heard about from friends who lived in the city.

As she chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, I watched in awe as she heated a large pot on the stove and added the spices to the pan. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, a heady mix of exotic scents that made my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, she added the goat meat, which had been marinating in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and curry powder. The meat sizzled and browned in the pan, releasing a rich, meaty smell that mingled with the spices to create a tantalizing fragrance that filled the entire house.

As the meat simmered, my grandmother added chopped tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots to the pot, along with a generous amount of water. She let the curry simmer for hours, stirring occasionally and adding more spices and seasonings as needed.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of waiting, the curry was ready. My grandmother ladled the fragrant stew into bowls and served it with fluffy white rice and warm naan bread. The first bite was like nothing I had ever tasted before - tender chunks of goat meat, swimming in a rich, flavorful sauce that was spicy, tangy, and savory all at once.

I was hooked. From that day on, I begged my grandmother to make Curry Goat for every special occasion. Birthdays, holidays, family gatherings - any excuse to indulge in the mouthwatering dish that had captured my heart and taste buds.

Over the years, I watched as my grandmother perfected her recipe, tweaking it here and there, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that to create the perfect balance of flavors. She taught me everything she knew about cooking, passing down her knowledge and love of food to me.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I continue to make Curry Goat for my own family, sharing the story of how I learned to make this delicious dish with each new generation. The recipe may have come from a neighbor in a distant city, but the love and tradition that goes into each pot of curry will always be a part of our family history.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day so many years ago, I can't help but smile and feel grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through the generations. The memories of my grandmother's Curry Goat will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring to a family.