Filipino Chicken Curry: A Creamy and Flavorful Fusion Dish
4-6 Servings
Filipino Chicken Curry is a delicious fusion dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Indian curry with the creamy richness of coconut milk, a staple in Filipino cuisine. This hearty and satisfying dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful curry sauce, along with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or served with rice for a complete meal.
20min Prep
30min Cook
INGREDIENTS
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup cooking oil
- 1 onion, chopped (approx. 150g or 5.3 oz)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 10g or 0.35 oz)
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated (approx. 15g or 0.5 oz)
- 2 potatoes, cubed (approx. 300g or 10.6 oz)
- 2 carrots, sliced (approx. 200g or 7 oz)
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (patis)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened. Add ginger and cook for another minute.
2. Add Curry Powder and Turmeric: Stir in the curry powder and turmeric powder. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
4. Add Vegetables and Liquid: Add potatoes, carrots, green bell pepper, and green beans. Pour in coconut milk and water.
5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
6. Season and Serve: Stir in fish sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot with rice.
The Story of Filipino Chicken Curry:
Filipino Chicken Curry is a testament to the country’s diverse culinary influences, blending Indian flavors with local ingredients and cooking techniques. The dish likely emerged during the colonial era when India and the Philippines were both under British rule, fostering cultural exchange.
Filipinos adapted the traditional curry recipe, incorporating coconut milk, a staple ingredient in Filipino cuisine, to create a milder and creamier version. This unique fusion of flavors has made Filipino Chicken Curry a beloved dish enjoyed across the country, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Filipino cooks.
