Curry de Cabri (Mauritian Goat Curry)
A rich and aromatic goat curry, slow-cooked with a blend of traditional Mauritian spices. This dish is a celebration of complex flavors, often served with rice and various chutneys.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Goat meat(bone-in, cut into pieces)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 6 Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 inch Fresh ginger(grated)
- 4 Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 10-15 Curry leaves
- 4-5 Thyme sprigs
- 2 tbsp Coriander powder
- 1.5 tbsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Chili powder(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2-3 cups Water(or as needed)
- for garnish Fresh coriander
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Marinate the goat meat: In a large bowl, combine the goat meat with salt, pepper, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and chili powder. Mix well to coat the meat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator.
- 2
Sauté aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Sear the meat: Add the marinated goat meat to the pot and sear it on all sides until browned. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
- 5
Add tomatoes and liquids: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down. Add the curry leaves and thyme sprigs.
- 6
Simmer the curry: Pour in enough water to cover the meat (about 2-3 cups). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the goat meat is very tender.
- 7
Adjust seasoning and finish: Check the tenderness of the meat. If the sauce is too thin, uncover and simmer for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- 8
Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using bone-in goat meat adds more flavor to the curry.
- ✓Slow cooking is key to tenderizing the goat meat.
- ✓Adjust the chili powder to your preferred level of heat.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes during the last hour of cooking.
- A splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.