Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry

Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry Recipe from Madagascar

Region / culture: Madagascar | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken, succulent prawns, and a rich coconut curry sauce. This dish is a popular choice for those who enjoy the bold flavors of Malagasy cuisine.

History

This recipe is inspired by the traditional flavors of Madagascar, an island nation off the southeast coast of Africa. Malagasy cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and unique flavor combinations. This dish combines the influences of Indian, African, and French cuisine, which have all played a role in shaping the culinary traditions of Madagascar.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 onions, chopped
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tbsp mild curry powder
salt
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 oz (28 g) freshly chopped ginger
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
4 tomatoes, chopped
1 (14)oz can coconut milk
20 large raw prawns, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp freshly chopped coriander
A squeeze of fresh lime juice

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the chicken and fry until golden brown on all sides.
Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until softened, stirring occasionally.
In a small bowl, combine the turmeric and curry powder with enough water to make a paste.
Add the curry paste to the chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring well. Then, add the salt, thyme, parsley, and tomatoes. Mix well, cover, and continue cooking for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the coconut milk and prawns. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the prawns are pink and cooked through.
Add the chopped coriander and lime juice. Mix well. Serve immediately.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use different spices such as cumin, paprika, or garam masala for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste preferences.

- For a spicier dish, add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

- Serve the curry with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant to build layers of flavor in the curry.

- Simmer the curry gently to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken and prawns to cook through.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving to ensure a perfectly balanced dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use shrimp instead of prawns for a different texture and flavor.

- Substitute coconut milk with coconut cream for a richer and creamier sauce.

- Use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a more tender and flavorful dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the curry sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding the prawns and chicken.

- Marinate the chicken in the curry paste overnight for extra flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry in a large serving bowl garnished with fresh coriander and lime wedges. - Arrange the prawns and chicken on top of the curry sauce for an elegant presentation. - Serve the curry in individual bowls with a side of rice or bread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to complement the spicy flavors.

- Serve the curry with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the curry gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 400 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (prawns) and coconut milk, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of Madagascar with tender chicken, succulent prawns, and a rich coconut curry sauce. This recipe is a perfect choice for those who enjoy the exotic and vibrant flavors of Malagasy cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished browsing through a local market in Madagascar. As I made my way through the bustling stalls, the aroma of exotic spices filled the air, drawing me towards a small, unassuming food stand.

There, a kind elderly woman was busy cooking up a storm, her hands moving deftly as she prepared a fragrant curry dish unlike anything I had ever seen before. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with her, and she graciously agreed to share her recipe for Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry with me.

She explained that this dish was a traditional Malagasy recipe, passed down through generations in her family. It was a labor of love, she said, requiring patience and skill to bring out the rich, complex flavors of the spices and ingredients.

Eager to learn, I watched as she guided me through the process, teaching me the secrets of creating the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that define Malagasy cuisine. I learned to toast the spices until they released their robust aromas, to simmer the prawns and chicken in a fragrant coconut milk and tomato broth, and to finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of acidity.

As I savored my first bite of the Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry, I was transported to a world of vibrant colors and bold flavors. The tender prawns and juicy chicken soaked up the rich, velvety sauce, while the aromatic spices danced on my tastebuds, leaving me craving more.

I knew that I had stumbled upon a gem of a recipe, one that would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire. Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, sharing it with friends and family who have all fallen in love with its exotic allure.

Each time I prepare the Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry, I am reminded of that fateful day in the market, where I was fortunate enough to learn from a master chef who had dedicated her life to preserving the culinary traditions of her homeland.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to know that some things remain timeless and steadfast. The art of cooking, passed down through generations, is a testament to the enduring power of food to connect us to our roots and to each other.

So as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Malagache Prawn and Chicken Curry, I am grateful for the opportunity to carry on a tradition that has brought so much joy and flavor into my life. And I hope that in sharing this recipe with you, dear reader, you too will experience the thrill of stumbling upon a culinary treasure that will bring warmth and delight to your table for years to come. Bon appétit!