Il Cucinologo
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Chicken and Shrimp Curry with Basmati Rice

17/11/2023

I can offer you an Italian version of this exotic dish, using ingredients that enhance the flavor while tying in well with the roots of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients

  • 300 g chicken breast
  • 200 g peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 200 g basmati rice
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 piece fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoons curry paste (if you prefer a more Italian touch, it can be replaced with a spice mix such as turmeric, sweet paprika, a pinch of cinnamon, and chili)
  • 400 ml coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional for garnish)
  • 1 red chili pepper (optional)

Preparation

  1. Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil for the basmati rice. When the water boils, add the rice and cook according to the package instructions, usually 10 to 12 minutes, then drain and keep warm.

  2. Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into cubes and the shrimp if they are too large. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. If you want to add a spicy touch, slice the chili pepper, discarding the seeds.

  3. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and chili until they become translucent and aromatic.

  4. Increase the heat, add the chicken to the skillet, and sear until golden on all sides.

  5. Add the curry paste (or the Italian spice mix) and tomato paste, stirring well so the chicken absorbs the flavors evenly.

  6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes.

  7. Add the shrimp and continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the chicken is fully cooked.

  8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an Italian touch.

  9. Serve the chicken and shrimp curry over the hot basmati rice and, if desired, garnish with chopped parsley or fresh cilantro for a touch of freshness.

Fun Fact

Chicken curry is a dish of Indian origin that has undergone multiple interpretations depending on the countries where it is prepared. The addition of shrimp is a rich and flavorful variation that combines the best of sea and land. Curry paste can vary in intensity and flavor depending on the region of production, but the use of spices is also very common in southern Italian cuisine, so don’t be shy about experimenting to find the perfect mix for your palate!