10 Steps to an EPIC Butter Chicken Curry

If you are vegetarian….keep reading because not only is this a step by step lesson in how to cook an easy, tasty dish it is also a lesson in how to improvise, find alternatives and create something delish without having to look at a recipe.

If you are a hot shot cook already…flick through anyway, ’cause this truly is a satisfying dish to cook and EAT.

STEP 1

Fry your roughly chopped onions in some coconut oil, ghee or butter

STEP 2

Add chilis, ginger and garlic

STEP 3 & LESSON 1

Add your spices – we used Durban Masala curry spice, a small stick of cinnamon and some cumin seeds.

Your lesson here is to EXPERIMENT. Use the curry powder you have in your drawer or make one up. Try mixing and matching but always start off with little amounts. You can add but you can’t take away ; )

STEP 4

Get the rice on the go!

STEP 5

Add the chicken….IF YOU DON’T EAT MEAT…..try cauliflower, potatoes, carrots, aubergines or any other veg you have in the fridge.

COVER and let simmer until cooked to your liking.

STEP 6 & LESSON 2

OOOPS…Nearly forgot the curry leaves.

Your lesson here is DON’T PANIC! Do not think your dish will be ruined because you forgot to add something. Mistakes can sometimes lead to new discoveries ; )

STEP 7

Grind your cashews….we actually used almonds because the cashews had been eaten already!!

STEP 8 & LESSON 3

Add some tinned tomato. How much will depend on whether you have used meat or veg. The veg may not make as much juice as the chicken in which case you should add a bit more tomatoes.

You lesson here is to IMPROVISE. If you don’t have tinned tomatoes but only fresh – just whizz them in a blender. A tip would be to add a pinch of salt to them before you blend ; )

STEP 9

Add cream, yoghurt or coconut milk. Be sure that the heat is low as the cream can curdle if its too hot!

STEP 10 & FINAL LESSON

Add fresh coriander just before serving and then taste to see if you need to add salt.

Your final lesson is to PRACTICE.

I have not added a list of ingredients, measurements or times because it’s good practice to just practice. Trust your instincts and go with the glow BUT be sure to taste regularly along the way ; )