DURBAN-STYLE SPICY CHICKEN CURRY

DURBAN-STYLE SPICY CHICKEN CURRY 

Fiery, flavorful, and deeply aromatic, Durban-style chicken curry is a South African classic that blends Indian spices with local flair. This hearty curry is perfect for family dinners, offering bold taste and comforting warmth in every bite.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken pieces, bone-in preferred
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 400 g / 14 oz canned tomatoes)
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
• 15 ml (1 tbsp) ginger paste
• 15 ml (1 tbsp) garlic paste
• 10 g (2 tsp) ground cumin
• 10 g (2 tsp) ground coriander
• 10 g (2 tsp) turmeric powder
• 15 g (1 tbsp) garam masala
• 15 g (1 tbsp) curry powder (Mother in law masala if available)
• 5 g (1 tsp) chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2–3 fresh green chilies, slit
• 250 ml (1 cup) chicken stock or water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

STEP-BY-STEP COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in ginger and garlic paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, curry powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Toast spices for 1 minute.
5. Add tomatoes and cook until softened and the oil begins to separate.
6. Add chicken pieces, stirring well to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned.
7. Add potatoes, green chilies, and chicken stock. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
8. Cover and cook for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender and potatoes are cooked through.
9. Adjust seasoning with salt.
10. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice, roti, or steamed dumplings (amadombolo).

HELPFUL COOKING TIPS

• Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor and authentic texture.
• Toasting spices before adding liquids enhances depth of flavor.
• For extra heat, add more fresh chilies or increase chili powder.
• If curry is too thick, add a splash of water or stock.
• Allow curry to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

PREP TIME

• 20 minutes

COOKING TIME

• 40 minutes

TOTAL TIME

• 1 hour

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~25 g
• Protein: ~28 g
• Fat: ~15 g
• Fiber: ~4 g

DIETARY TAGS

• High-protein
• Nut-free
• Dairy-free

ALLERGEN INFORMATION

• Contains none of the major allergens (no gluten, dairy, nuts, or shellfish).
• Always check spice blends for hidden additives.