Ajika-inspired Spicy Chicken Curry

Ingredients

While the original Ajika is a spicy paste made with red chili peppers, garlic, and various herbs, this adapted recipe transforms the flavors of Ajika into a fiery chicken curry. The traditional Georgian spices are combined with Timorese influences, resulting in a unique fusion of cuisines. The use of local ingredients and cooking techniques from East Timor adds a distinct character to the dish, making it a delightful representation of the Timorese culinary heritage. We alse have the original recipe for Ajika, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces 500g (1.1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon tamarind paste 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
• 400ml (1 2/3 cups) coconut milk 400ml (1 2/3 cups) coconut milk
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Add the spice mixture to the pan and cook for a minute, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
6. 6.
   Stir in the tamarind paste, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt to taste.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure that the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the curry.
• Tamarind paste — If you can't find tamarind paste, you can substitute it with lime juice for a tangy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra spicy kick, add a chopped bird's eye chili to the curry.
• Serve the curry with steamed rice or naan bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder.

Serving advice

Serve the Fiery Timorese Chicken Curry hot with steamed rice and garnish with fresh cilantro. The aromatic flavors and vibrant colors of the curry make it a visually appealing and satisfying main course.

Presentation advice

Present the Fiery Timorese Chicken Curry in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the curry to shine through. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness.