Singapore Kari Ayam (Chicken Curry)
A fragrant and rich chicken curry, a staple in Singaporean households, characterized by its complex spice blend and creamy coconut milk base. This version is a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the Malay-Indonesian influence on Singaporean cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.2 kg Chicken(bone-in, cut into serving pieces)
- 400 ml Coconut milk
- 300 g Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 medium Onions(sliced)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch Ginger(grated)
- 2 stalks Lemongrass(bruised)
- 4 leaves Kaffir lime leaves
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1 sprig Curry leaves(optional)
- 2-3 optional Chilli padi(slit)
- 1 cup Spice paste (rempah)(see instructions for components)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the spice paste (rempah): Blend dried chillies (soaked and deseeded), shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, galangal, candlenuts (or macadamia nuts), and belacan (shrimp paste) into a smooth paste. Adjust quantities based on desired spice level and richness.
💡 Tip: Soaking dried chillies makes them easier to blend. Toasting belacan briefly enhances its flavor. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until softened and lightly browned.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Add the prepared spice paste (rempah) to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the oil separates from the paste and it becomes fragrant. This is crucial for developing the curry's flavor.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 5
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sear them on all sides until lightly browned.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Pour in the coconut milk, add the bruised lemongrass stalks, kaffir lime leaves, curry leaves (if using), and slit chilli padi (if using). Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure the heat is not too high at this stage to prevent the coconut milk from curdling. - 7
Bring the curry to a simmer, then add the cubed potatoes. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 8
Season the curry with salt and sugar to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding a little water if it's too thick, or simmering longer if it's too thin.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning carefully. The sweetness of the coconut milk and potatoes can balance the spices. - 9
Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti prata, or crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the spice paste is key to a flavorful curry. Use fresh ingredients for the best results.
- ✓Don't rush the cooking of the spice paste; this step is essential for developing deep flavors.
- ✓Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer dried chillies and chilli padi.
- ✓For a richer curry, you can use a mix of coconut milk and evaporated milk.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots, long beans, or eggplant.
- Use chicken thighs for a more tender and flavorful result.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of tamarind paste for a slight tanginess.