Chicken and apple curry
How many times do you feel like taking the plane and flying away from the daily routine of your stressful lives? I often do! That’s why I love to try various ethnic cuisines, so I feel as though I am travelling even though I’m staying at home - I can enjoy new tastes and fly off with my imagination! With this recipe I’m taking a direct ticket to India: what are we making? It’s a chicken curry with apples. The combination may seem unusual and you may wonder what we are doing with a green and crispy Granny Smith apple in a main course of Indian chicken curry. Well, because it tastes great! The curry powder we’re making for this recipe has a strong flavour of cinnamon, a spice that enhances and perfectly complements the taste of the apple. The same apple, for its part, provides a slight crunchiness and a pleasant acidity to the dish. The result is truly amazing. Obviously, you should serve basmati rice as an accompaniment!
Ingredients
* approximate values per serving
Preparation
Cut the chicken into large cubes and put them in a bowl to marinate with the soy sauce, the finely chopped garlic and a little cumin. Let it marinate until all the other ingredients are ready. Now make the curry: for the uninitiated, the curry or masala is not a single spice, but a mixture of spices and in India every family has its own recipe. The base of each masala has cumin, black pepper, coriander and turmeric. There are many variations; the following was invented by me. Grind the cardamom seeds, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and then add the other ground spices. This curry has cinnamon which will give it a sweeter and more romantic taste. Cut the vegetables and the apple, trying to keep them all roughly the same large dice-size, like the chicken. Take a clay casserole, heat some oil and then brown the chicken. Once that is done, add the rest of the vegetables. Fry, adding the curry and a dash of white wine and cover with lid. Cook for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare a little water with a teaspoon of flour dissolved in it. Uncover the pot and add to this mixture the grated zest of a lime. Cook for 5 minutes, remove from the heat and serve. I recommend you serve chicken curry with basmati rice.
Step by step
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Cut the chicken into strips and marinate in the soy sauce and garlic
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Prepare your curry powder grinding together your preferred spices
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Cut the veg into large chunks
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Cook the chicken in a frying pan until it’s browned
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Add the veg and continue to fry
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Add the white wine and reduce
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Cut the apple into pieces and add to the dish toward the end of the cooking time
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This fabulously tasty curry is ready!
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Additional information
Chicken and Apple Curry with Zucchini and Peppers
One of the tastiest variants of Chicken and Apple Curry is certainly the one that includes zucchini and peppers. These vegetables not only enrich the dish with vibrant colors but also bring a note of freshness that perfectly complements the sweet flavor of the apples and the spiciness of the curry. To prepare this variant, simply add sliced zucchini and peppers, which can be red, yellow, or green, during the cooking phase. By cooking together with these ingredients, the chicken will absorb all the flavors and aromas of the vegetables, creating a dish with a balanced and enveloping taste. Additionally, zucchini and peppers provide a good dose of vitamins and minerals, making this preparation not only delicious but also nutritious.
Chicken and Apple Curry Indian Style
For those who wish to immerse themselves in the authentic flavors of India, Chicken and Apple Curry can be prepared following the Indian tradition. In this variant, it is essential to use a blend of fresh spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, to achieve an aromatic masala. A pinch of chili can also be added for a spicy touch, typical of Indian cuisine. This preparation involves slow cooking, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as crisp apples and tender chicken, will make the dish even more appetizing. Served with basmati rice or naan, Chicken and Apple Curry Indian Style is a true sensory journey into the heart of Eastern cuisine.
Light Chicken and Apple Curry with No Added Fats
For those who want to enjoy a lighter Chicken and Apple Curry, it can be prepared without the addition of fats. In this variant, one can opt for steaming or using a non-stick pan, avoiding the use of oil or butter. Using lean chicken and plenty of vegetables helps keep the dish light and healthy. Apples, in addition to providing sweetness, contribute fiber and vitamins, while spices like cumin and turmeric not only enhance the flavor but also offer health benefits. This light version of the curry is ideal for those following a low-calorie diet, without sacrificing taste and variety. Larger portions can also be served without guilt, making the meal satisfying and nutritious.
Benefits of Chicken and Apples in Chicken and Apple Curry
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Additionally, it is rich in B vitamins, which support energy metabolism. Apples, on the other hand, are a fruit rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, contributing to improved digestion and a strong immune system. In this dish, the nutritional benefits are amplified by the presence of spices like turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. On average, a serving of Chicken and Apple Curry provides about 350-400 calories, making it a balanced option for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Can Chicken and Apple Curry be Frozen?
The answer is yes, Chicken and Apple Curry can be frozen. To achieve the best results, it is advisable to freeze the curry after cooking, allowing it to cool completely. Using airtight containers or food bags, it is possible to preserve the flavor and texture of the dish. When you wish to consume it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently, possibly adding a bit of water or broth to restore the right consistency. This practice is ideal for preparing meals in advance and reducing food waste, making the curry always ready for a quick and tasty dinner.