Pub-Style Chicken Curry

This Pub-Style Chicken Curry is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken pieces with a rich, creamy sauce infused with aromatic spices. The addition of sweet mango chutney adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the mild heat from the Thai red chili peppers. Served over basmati rice with warm naan bread, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer chili peppers, and incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or peas to suit your taste. The flavors meld beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or serving at gatherings. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful curry that brings the warmth and coziness of a traditional pub meal right into your home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 4 split chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 4-5 medium carrots, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1-2 Thai red chili peppers, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 1/2 tbsp mild curry powder

• 2 tsp flour

• 1/2 tsp turmeric

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 1/2 tsp minced ginger

• 2 cups hot chicken stock

• 1 cup table cream (18% M.F.)

• 1 tbsp sweet mango chutney

Directions:

1. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large pan. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until white on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.

2. Add onions, carrots, garlic, and chili peppers to the pan. Cook over medium heat until onions are softened, approximately 5 minutes.

3. Stir in tomato paste, coating the vegetables and chicken evenly.

4. Add curry powder, flour, turmeric, cumin, and ginger. Stir until the mixture is dry and spices are well-distributed.

5. Pour in hot chicken stock and bring to a boil. Add cream, return to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Stir in mango chutney just before serving.

7. Serve over basmati rice with warm naan bread for dipping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour

Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

The History Behind Pub-Style Chicken Curry

The origins of pub-style curries can be traced back to the British colonial era when Indian flavors were introduced to the United Kingdom. As British soldiers and traders returned home, they brought with them a taste for the bold and fragrant spices of Indian cuisine. Over time, these spices were incorporated into classic British dishes, resulting in the birth of a new culinary tradition.

By the mid-20th century, curry had firmly established itself in British pubs. Patrons seeking a warm and satisfying meal would often find variations of curry on pub menus. These dishes were adapted to local tastes, often featuring milder spice blends and creamy sauces to appeal to a broader audience. Today, Pub-Style Chicken Curry remains a popular choice for those craving a comforting, savory, and slightly spicy meal.

What Makes Pub-Style Chicken Curry Unique?

What sets Pub-Style Chicken Curry apart from other curry recipes is its distinct combination of ingredients and its preparation style. Unlike traditional Indian curries that may use a variety of complex spices and slow-cooking methods, pub-style curry simplifies the process without compromising on flavor.

Key features of Pub-Style Chicken Curry include:

• Creamy Texture: The use of table cream gives the curry its signature rich and smooth consistency. This creamy base helps mellow the spices while adding a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Balanced Spice Profile: This recipe typically uses mild curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and fresh ginger. The result is a well-rounded dish that is warm and flavorful but not overpoweringly spicy.
• Sweet and Savory Contrast: One of the hallmarks of pub-style curry is the addition of sweet mango chutney. This unexpected ingredient adds a delightful hint of sweetness that balances the savory spices beautifully.
• Versatility: Pub-Style Chicken Curry is highly adaptable. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chili peppers, incorporate seasonal vegetables, or even substitute the chicken with other proteins like lamb or tofu.

Serving Suggestions for Pub-Style Chicken Curry

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility when it comes to serving options. Here are a few classic and creative ways to enjoy Pub-Style Chicken Curry:

1. Over Steamed Basmati Rice: The light, fluffy texture of basmati rice complements the rich and creamy curry sauce. This classic pairing is a favorite for good reason.
2. With Warm Naan Bread: Soft, pillowy naan bread is perfect for scooping up the curry and soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.
3. As a Curry Bowl: Serve the chicken curry over a bed of rice or quinoa and top with fresh cilantro, sliced red chilies, and a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
4. With a Side of Pickles: Traditional Indian pickles or a side of tangy cucumber raita can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory curry.
5. In a Wrap: Use leftover chicken curry as a filling for a warm tortilla wrap. Add some shredded lettuce and a drizzle of mint chutney for a delicious handheld meal.

Tips for Perfecting Pub-Style Chicken Curry

Creating the perfect Pub-Style Chicken Curry is all about balancing flavors and ensuring the right texture. Here are some expert tips to take your curry to the next level:

• Use Fresh Spices: Spices lose their potency over time. For the most aromatic and flavorful curry, make sure your curry powder, turmeric, and cumin are fresh.
• Sear the Chicken: Browning the chicken pieces before adding the vegetables and spices helps lock in moisture and develop a deeper flavor.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the curry to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together while ensuring the chicken remains tender.
• Adjust the Heat: Tailor the spice level to your preference by adding or omitting Thai red chili peppers. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili, or leave it out entirely.
• Enhance with Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut can elevate the dish and add a burst of freshness.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that is both easy to make and incredibly flavorful, Pub-Style Chicken Curry is an excellent choice. It combines the best of both worlds: the ease and familiarity of home cooking with the rich, exotic flavors of a classic curry.

This recipe is also perfect for meal prepping. The flavors deepen and become even more robust after a day or two, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have a delicious homemade curry on hand.

Whether you’re new to cooking curry or a seasoned pro, this dish is approachable and satisfying. The simple steps, combined with the decadent flavors, make it a standout option for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in.

Conclusion:

Pub-Style Chicken Curry is a timeless classic that brings together the comforting essence of British pub fare and the rich, aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. With its creamy texture, perfectly balanced spices, and sweet undertones from the mango chutney, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Its versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavors make it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether served over fluffy basmati rice, accompanied by warm naan bread, or repurposed into a creative leftover dish, Pub-Style Chicken Curry is a delightful and satisfying culinary experience.

Next time you’re craving something warm and flavorful, give this recipe a try. It captures the heart of traditional comfort food while offering a taste of culinary fusion that will leave you coming back for more.