What is Jamaican curry chicken made of

What is Jamaican Curry Chicken Made Of?

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Jamaican curry chicken is a delicious dish that showcases the rich and spicy flavors of the Caribbean island. It is one of the most popular dishes in Jamaica, and a staple of its cuisine. Jamaican curry chicken is not only tasty, but also easy to make and versatile. You can enjoy it with rice, bread, vegetables, or other side dishes.

I will show you what Jamaican curry chicken is made of, how to prepare it, and how to serve it. I will also share some tips and variations to customize it to your liking. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make Jamaican curry chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Chicken: You can use any type of chicken you prefer, such as whole, bone-in, or boneless. I recommend using about 3 pounds of chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Curry powder: This is the key ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive flavor and color. You can use any brand of curry powder you like, or make your own by mixing turmeric, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, mustard, and other spices. You will need about 3 tablespoons of curry powder for this recipe.
  • All-purpose or chicken seasoning: This is a blend of herbs and spices that enhances the flavor of the chicken. You can use a store-bought seasoning, or make your own by combining salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and other seasonings. You will need about 2 teaspoons of all-purpose or chicken seasoning for this recipe.
  • Salt: You can adjust the amount of salt to your taste, but I suggest using about 1 teaspoon of salt for this recipe.
  • Pimento berries (allspice): These are dried berries that have a warm and aromatic flavor, similar to a combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. They add a unique touch to Jamaican curry chicken, and are widely used in Jamaican cooking. You can find them in specialty stores, or online. You will need about 6 pimento berries for this recipe.
  • Garlic cloves: Garlic adds a nice aroma and flavor to the dish. You will need about 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced, for this recipe.
  • Onion, chopped: Onion provides a depth of flavor and sweetness to the dish. You will need about 1 large onion, chopped, for this recipe.
  • Fresh thyme: Thyme is a herb that adds a fresh and herbal essence to the dish. You will need about 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, for this recipe.
  • Carrots, chopped: Carrots add some texture and nutrition to the dish. They also balance out the spiciness of the curry. You will need about 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped, for this recipe.
  • Bell pepper, chopped: Bell pepper adds some color and crunch to the dish. You can use any color of bell pepper you like, such as green, red, yellow, or orange. You will need about 1 medium bell pepper, chopped, for this recipe.
  • Scotch Bonnet pepper, chopped (optional): Scotch Bonnet pepper is a very hot and flavorful pepper that is native to the Caribbean. It adds a fiery kick to Jamaican curry chicken, and is often used in Jamaican cooking. However, it is optional, and you can omit it if you don’t like spicy food, or use less if you want a milder version. You will need about 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper, chopped, for this recipe. Be careful when handling it, and wear gloves to avoid burning your skin or eyes.
  • Coconut milk (optional): Coconut milk is a creamy and rich liquid that is extracted from the flesh of coconuts. It adds a smooth and luscious texture and flavor to Jamaican curry chicken, and is often used in Jamaican cooking. However, it is optional, and you can omit it if you want a lighter version, or use water or chicken broth instead. You will need about 1 cup of coconut milk for this recipe.

Preparation

To prepare Jamaican curry chicken, you will need to follow these steps:

  • Rinse and marinate the chicken: First, rinse the chicken pieces under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels. Then, place them in a large bowl, and add 2 tablespoons of curry powder, all-purpose or chicken seasoning, salt, and 2 garlic cloves. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, in the refrigerator.
  • Combine spices for a flavorful marinade: Next, in a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of curry powder, pimento berries, and 2 garlic cloves. This will be the spice mixture that you will add to the chicken later, to boost its flavor and aroma.
  • Cooking methods: Stovetop, oven, or grill: You can cook Jamaican curry chicken using different methods, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are the three main methods you can choose from:
    • Stovetop: This is the traditional and most common method of cooking Jamaican curry chicken. To do this, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and brown the chicken pieces on both sides, for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate, and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, thyme, carrots, bell pepper, and Scotch Bonnet pepper, if using, for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden. Then, add the spice mixture, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Next, add the coconut milk, if using, or water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Finally, adjust the seasoning, if needed, and serve hot.
    • Oven: This is a convenient and easy method of cooking Jamaican curry chicken. To do this, preheat the oven to 375°F, and grease a baking dish. Then, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking dish, and pour the spice mixture over them, making sure to coat them well. Next, scatter the onion, thyme, carrots, bell pepper, and Scotch Bonnet pepper, if using, around the chicken. Then, pour the coconut milk, if using, or water or chicken broth, over the chicken and vegetables, and cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce is bubbly. Finally, remove the foil, and broil for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and crisp. Then, adjust the seasoning, if needed, and serve hot.
    • Grill: This is a fun and flavorful method of cooking Jamaican curry chicken. To do this, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, and oil the grates. Then, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, and grill for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the spice mixture, onion, thyme, coconut milk, if using, or water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened. Next, add the carrots, bell pepper, and Scotch Bonnet pepper, if using, and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Finally, adjust the seasoning, if needed, and serve the sauce with the grilled chicken.
  • Tips for tender and flavorful chicken: Here are some tips to make your Jamaican curry chicken more tender and flavorful:
    • Marinate the chicken for longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb, and the more tender it will become. You can marinate the chicken for up to overnight, or at least 30 minutes, in the refrigerator.
    • Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your chicken is cooked to the right temperature, and not overcooked or undercooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check its doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, when inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
    • Rest the chicken before serving: To keep the chicken moist and juicy, you can let it rest for about 10 minutes, before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, and prevent them from escaping when you cut or bite into it.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve Jamaican curry chicken with a variety of accompaniments, depending on your preference and appetite. Here are some of the most common and delicious serving suggestions:

  • Rice, peas, or white rice: Rice is the classic and most popular side dish for Jamaican curry chicken. You can use any type of rice you like, such as long-grain, basmati, or jasmine. You can also cook the rice with peas, such as kidney beans, pigeon peas, or black-eyed peas, to add some protein and flavor. Alternatively, you can serve the chicken with plain white rice, and enjoy the sauce with it.
  • Raw vegetables: Raw vegetables add some freshness and crunch to the dish, and contrast well with the warm and spicy chicken. You can serve the chicken with raw vegetables, such as fried or roasted breadfruit, fried plantain, avocado, or salad. You can also use any fresh or cooked vegetables you like, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, or corn.
  • Side dishes: Side dishes add some complementary flavors and textures to the dish, and make it more satisfying and complete. You can serve the chicken with side dishes such as macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, or dumplings. You can also use any side dishes you enjoy, such as pasta, beans, or cheese.

Variations and Tips

You can customize Jamaican curry chicken to your liking, by making some variations and adjustments. Here are some ideas and tips to try:

  • Adjusting the level of spiciness: You can make the dish more or less spicy, by adding or reducing the amount of Scotch Bonnet pepper, or using a different type of hot pepper, such as habanero, jalapeño, or cayenne. You can also use a mild or hot curry powder, depending on your preference. Another way to balance the spiciness is to add some sugar, honey, or lime juice, to the sauce, to add some sweetness and acidity.
  • Using different types of chicken: You can use any type of chicken you like, such as whole, bone-in, or boneless. You can also use different cuts of chicken, such as breast, thigh, leg, or wing. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and temperature may vary, depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. You can also use other types of meat, such as beef, lamb, pork, or goat, or vegetarian alternatives, such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan, to make the dish.
  • Substituting ingredients for dietary restrictions: You can make the dish suitable for different dietary needs, by substituting some ingredients. For example, you can use gluten-free or low-carb flour, to thicken the sauce, or omit it altogether. You can also use coconut oil, olive oil, or butter, instead of vegetable oil, to cook the chicken and vegetables. You can also use vegan or dairy-free alternatives, such as almond milk, soy milk, or cashew cream, instead of coconut milk, or omit it altogether. You can also use low-sodium or salt-free seasonings, to reduce the salt content of the dish.
  • Pairing with other dishes for a complete meal: You can make the dish more filling and varied, by pairing it with other dishes. For example, you can serve the chicken with a soup, such as pumpkin soup, chicken soup, or lentil soup, to start the meal. You can also serve the chicken with a dessert, such as rum cake, coconut cake, or banana pudding, to end the meal.

FAQ

What is the difference between Jamaican curry and Indian curry?

Jamaican curry and Indian curry are both dishes that use a blend of spices, such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and others, to flavor meat, vegetables, and rice. However, they have some differences, such as:

      • Jamaican curry uses more allspice, thyme, and Scotch Bonnet pepper, which give it a more aromatic, herbal, and spicy flavor, while Indian curry uses more ginger, cardamom, and garam masala, which give it a more warm, sweet, and complex flavor.
      • Jamaican curry is usually thicker and creamier, due to the use of coconut milk, while Indian curry is usually thinner and more watery, due to the use of water or broth.
      • Jamaican curry is usually simpler and easier to make, with fewer ingredients and steps, while Indian curry is usually more elaborate and time-consuming, with more ingredients and steps.

How long does Jamaican curry chicken last in the fridge?

Jamaican curry chicken can last for up to 4 days in the fridge, if stored in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or stovetop, until hot and bubbly. Also freeze it for up to 3 months, if wrapped well and placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, or in the microwave, before reheating it.

Is Jamaican curry chicken healthy?

Jamaican curry chicken can be healthy, depending on how you make it and what you serve it with. It is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, from the chicken, and of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties, from the spices. It also contains some fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, from the vegetables. However, it can also be high in fat, calories, sodium, and cholesterol, depending on the type and amount of chicken, oil, coconut milk, and seasonings you use. You can make it healthier, by using leaner cuts of chicken, such as breast, or skinless chicken, using less oil, coconut milk, and salt, and serving it with whole-grain rice, or more vegetables. You can also balance it with a moderate portion size, and a healthy diet overall.