RecipesSeychellesKari Koko Poul (Coconut Chicken Curry)

Kari Koko Poul (Coconut Chicken Curry)

A fragrant and creamy chicken curry made with coconut milk and a blend of aromatic Seychellois spices. This dish is a staple in Creole cuisine, offering a rich and comforting flavor profile.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Kari Koko Poul (Coconut Chicken Curry) - Seychelles traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into small cubes)
  • 250 g Chicken breast(boneless, skinless, cut into small cubes)
  • 2 tbsp Canola oil
  • 1 medium White onion(peeled and chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic cloves(peeled and diced)
  • 1 tsp Fresh ginger root(diced)
  • 1 tsp White pepper
  • 0.25 tsp Ground cloves
  • 1 tsp Ground ginger
  • 1 tsp Nutmeg(freshly grated)
  • 0.25 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 3 tbsp Curry powder(Madras curry powder recommended)
  • 0.25 tsp Saffron(a small pinch)
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • 1 Kaffir lime leaf
  • 8 oz Russet potato(peeled and cut into 3/4 inch cubes)
  • 2 cup Coconut milk
  • Salt(to taste)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, mix together the white pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, curry powder, and saffron to create the spice blend.

  2. 2

    Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and one-third of the spice blend. Set aside.

  3. 3

    Heat the canola oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced garlic, and diced ginger. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook until partially browned on all sides.

  5. 5

    Add the remaining spice blend, cubed potato, bay leaf, and kaffir lime leaf to the pan. Stir to coat the chicken and potatoes with the spices.

  6. 6

    Pour in the coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

  7. 7

    Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and become creamy.

  8. 8

    Remove and discard the bay leaf and kaffir lime leaf. Season with salt to taste.

  9. 9

    Serve hot over steamed rice.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a more authentic flavor, use freshly grated nutmeg.
  • If kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, the zest of half a lime can be substituted.
  • Adjust the amount of chili or curry powder to suit your preferred spice level.

🔄 Variations

  • Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers along with the potatoes.
  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk.
  • Can be made with firm white fish or shrimp instead of chicken.

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