Chicken in coconut and almond sauce

Delicious Chicken in Coconut and Almond Sauce Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Chicken in coconut and almond sauce is a recipe that combines the rich flavors of spices with the creamy texture of coconut milk. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but also offers an exotic culinary experience, bringing a touch of sunshine to your plate.

A bit of history: Coconut-based dishes have been appreciated throughout history in many cultures, symbolizing hospitality and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Regardless of its origin, this dish has evolved to become a favorite for many, due to its simplicity and exquisite taste.

Ingredients:

- 3 tablespoons ground almonds
- 2 tablespoons coconut flakes
- 200-250 ml coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons grated garlic (about 5 cloves)
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger (about 7 cm of ginger root)
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons corn oil
- 5 green cardamom pods
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt to taste

Preparing the coconut sauce:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preparing all your ingredients. Measure the almonds and coconut flakes, grate the garlic and ginger. This step will help you cook quickly and efficiently, without feeling rushed.

2. Toasting the almonds and coconut: In a dry pan, toast the ground almonds and coconut flakes over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden. This will add a rich nutty flavor and wonderful aroma to the dish. Once toasted, transfer them to a bowl and set aside.

3. Preparing the sauce: In the same bowl, add the coconut milk, ground coriander, chili, grated garlic, and ginger. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth sauce. This will be the delicious base of your dish.

Preparing the chicken:

4. Heating the oil: In a large pan, heat the corn oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to seal in the juices of the chicken and achieve a tender texture.

5. Cooking the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan along with the cardamom pods and bay leaves. Cook the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side until golden. The cardamom and bay leaves will infuse the meat with subtle flavors, turning each bite into a culinary experience.

6. Adding the sauce: Once the chicken is browned, add the previously prepared coconut sauce. Mix well, then cover the pan and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. This time allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and become tender and juicy. If you notice the sauce thickening too much, you can add a splash of water to thin it out.

7. Finishing the dish: About 2 minutes before it is done, add the chopped parsley. This will add a touch of freshness and a pleasant color contrast.

Serving:

8. Serving: Once the chicken is cooked, serve the dish alongside basmati rice. The rice will absorb the delicious sauce and balance the intense flavors of the dish. You can also add some fresh chili strips for an extra splash of color and spice.

Practical tips:

- Variability: You can substitute the chicken breast with turkey or vegetables for a vegetarian option. Vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or eggplant pair wonderfully with the coconut sauce.
- Buying ingredients: Choose high-quality coconut milk without additives. You can find it in specialty stores or in the international aisles of supermarkets.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of nuts? Yes, you can experiment with cashews or pecans, which will provide a different but delicious flavor.

2. Is this dish healthy? Yes, chicken is a good source of protein, and coconut milk brings healthy fats. Additionally, garlic and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties.

3. What drinks can be paired with this? I recommend a refreshing lemonade or lemongrass tea, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

I encourage you to try this chicken in coconut and almond sauce recipe. It is a wonderful choice for a quick yet impressive dinner that is sure to impress family and friends. Whether it’s an ordinary evening or a special occasion, this dish will always bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!