Mary Berry Lucindas Chicken Curry Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that will impress family and friends, you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich, aromatic spices and tender chicken, creating a dish that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Mary Berry’s straightforward instructions make it simple to create this delicious curry, and the end result is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a go and enjoy a taste of something truly special?.

Mary Berry Lucindas Chicken Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Mary Berry’s delightful Lucinda’s Chicken Curry, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients that bring warmth and depth of flavor to the dish. The list is straightforward but essential to achieve that perfect balance of spices, tender chicken, and creamy richness that this curry is known for. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need:

• Chicken thighs (boneless and skinless) – Chicken thighs are the star of this curry. They’re juicy, flavorful, and tender when cooked slowly, soaking up all the aromatic spices in the sauce. You can opt for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs work best for texture and flavor.

• Onion – A finely chopped onion serves as the base for your curry sauce. Its natural sweetness balances out the heat of the spices, helping to create a well-rounded sauce.

• Garlic and Ginger – These aromatic ingredients are essential for building the curry’s fragrance. Garlic adds a savory note, while ginger provides a warming, slightly spicy flavor that complements the other spices.

• Curry powder – This is the key to giving the dish its characteristic flavor. Curry powder is a blend of spices, typically including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and fenugreek, and provides a warm, earthy base to the curry.

• Ground cumin and ground coriander – These spices enhance the depth of flavor in the curry, lending a savory and slightly citrusy undertone.

• Tomato puree – Tomato puree adds a rich, slightly tangy taste and helps thicken the curry sauce. It balances the curry’s spiciness and gives it a smooth, velvety texture.

• Coconut milk – For a creamy and indulgent sauce, coconut milk is used. Its richness cuts through the heat and spices, giving the curry a luscious texture that coats the chicken beautifully.

• Chicken stock – To bring everything together and ensure the sauce is at the perfect consistency, chicken stock is added. It enhances the overall flavor and helps to deglaze the pan, incorporating all the caramelized bits into the sauce.

• Fresh coriander – Fresh coriander, also known as cilantro, adds a burst of freshness and brightness to the dish when sprinkled on top as a garnish just before serving.

• Lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors of the curry and adds a tangy, zesty contrast to the richness of the coconut milk.

• Salt and pepper – These basic seasonings are essential for ensuring that the flavors in the curry are well-balanced and harmonious.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry requires some essential kitchen equipment to ensure that the ingredients cook properly and the dish turns out perfect every time. While the equipment isn’t particularly complex, each tool plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and well-cooked. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large, heavy-bottomed frying pan or skillet – This is where you’ll cook your chicken and make the curry sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for preventing burning and achieving a perfectly caramelized base for the curry.

• Sharp knife and chopping board – You’ll need these to chop the onions, garlic, ginger, and coriander, as well as to prepare the chicken. A sharp knife helps with precision and makes chopping faster and safer.

• Wooden spoon or spatula – A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the curry as it simmers, allowing you to scrape the bottom of the pan without damaging the surface. It’s ideal for sautéing ingredients and making sure nothing sticks.

• Measuring spoons and cups – While the recipe may not be overly complicated in terms of measurements, using measuring spoons and cups helps ensure that the balance of spices, liquids, and other ingredients is just right.

• Lid for the pan – You’ll need a lid for the frying pan when the curry is simmering, especially to allow the chicken to cook through thoroughly while keeping the moisture locked in.

• Serving dish – Once your curry is ready, you’ll want a large dish to serve it in. A bowl or deep platter allows you to present the curry attractively, and it’s practical for scooping out portions.

• Small bowl (for garnishing) – A small bowl will come in handy for holding your fresh coriander and any other garnishes you plan to use.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry

Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is a harmonious blend of spices, tender chicken, and a creamy coconut sauce. Follow these simple steps to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen:

1. Prepare the ingredients – Start by dicing the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Set these aside so they’re ready to go when you start cooking.

2. Cook the chicken – Heat a little oil in your frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken until golden brown on all sides. You don’t need to cook it through at this stage; just brown the meat to lock in the flavors. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Create the curry base – In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped onion until softened and golden. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and ginger and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.

4. Add the spices – Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Let the spices toast for a minute or two, releasing their essential oils and flavors. This step is crucial as it deepens the flavor of your curry.

5. Add the tomato puree and liquids – Stir in the tomato puree, allowing it to cook for a minute. Then, pour in the chicken stock and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Simmer the curry – Return the chicken to the pan, along with any juices that have accumulated. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

7. Finish the curry – Once the chicken is tender and the curry has thickened to your desired consistency, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. Garnish with fresh coriander just before serving.

8. Serve – Serve your delicious Lucinda’s Chicken Curry with steamed rice or naan bread for the perfect meal.

Expert Tips

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs – They’re more flavorful and juicy compared to chicken breasts, and they hold up better in the curry, absorbing the spices and sauce.

2. Don’t rush the onion cooking process – Allow the onion to cook down slowly to a golden color. This caramelization adds a subtle sweetness to the base of the curry and enriches the overall flavor.

3. Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of curry powder or use a mild variety. Conversely, if you enjoy more heat, you can add some chili flakes or fresh chili during the cooking process.

4. Make ahead – This curry can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors will develop and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

5. Garnish creatively – While fresh coriander is a classic garnish, you could also try adding a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of mango chutney for extra flavor.

Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a dish that is both comforting and full of complex flavors. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk makes for a rich and indulgent curry that is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a wonderful way to bring the vibrant flavors of a homemade curry to your table. By following the simple steps and keeping a few expert tips in mind, you’ll create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful, making it a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry

Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is already a delightful dish with a rich blend of flavors, but like any classic recipe, it offers plenty of room for creativity. Here are some simple variations to give it your own twist, whether you’re trying to accommodate dietary preferences or just want to explore new flavors.

1. Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess:

   If you’re looking to add a smooth, creamy texture to the curry, consider swapping out some of the stock for coconut milk. This will infuse a subtle sweetness and richness into the dish, balancing out the spices and enhancing the flavor profile. Coconut milk also works well if you’re catering to a dairy-free or vegan crowd.

2. Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor:

   While boneless chicken breast or thighs are commonly used, bone-in chicken can bring an added depth of flavor. As the bones simmer in the curry, they release collagen, enriching the sauce with more body and a deeper, richer taste. This is particularly effective if you’re making a larger batch and want a more robust curry.

3. Spicy Variation with Chili Peppers:

   For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can kick up the spice level by adding finely chopped fresh chili peppers or chili flakes. Whether you opt for green, red, or a mix of both, the peppers can add both heat and complexity to the curry. You can control the spice by adjusting the amount based on your preference, allowing for a personalized touch.

4. Vegetarian Twist with Tofu or Chickpeas:

   If you’re serving a vegetarian or vegan crowd, swapping the chicken for tofu or chickpeas can still deliver a satisfying and hearty dish. Tofu absorbs the curry’s flavors beautifully, while chickpeas add a lovely texture and earthiness. Both options can be sautéed with the onions and spices to infuse them with rich flavors before adding them to the sauce.

5. Incorporate Extra Veggies:

   Mary Berry’s recipe can be easily adapted to include more vegetables, making it even more nutritious. Consider adding cauliflower florets, spinach, bell peppers, or peas.

   These vegetables blend beautifully into the curry, adding color, texture, and additional layers of flavor. They’re especially good for those looking to increase the dish’s vegetable content without compromising taste.

6. Infuse with Fresh Herbs:

   Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the curry. Sprinkle them on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh, herbal flavor. You could also add a sprig of fresh basil or curry leaves during cooking for a deeper infusion of aromatic flavors.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Proper storage of leftovers ensures that your Lucinda’s Chicken Curry remains fresh and delicious for the next meal, preserving both its flavor and texture. Here are some essential tips for storing and reheating your curry effectively:

1. Cool It Down First:

   Before storing, always let your curry cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation in the storage container, which could lead to the growth of bacteria. To speed up the cooling process, you can divide the curry into smaller portions.

2. Store in Airtight Containers:

   Use airtight containers to store your leftovers. These will help retain the curry’s moisture and flavor while preventing it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. If you plan on storing the curry for more than a few days, it’s advisable to freeze it in freezer-safe containers for long-term storage.

3. Refrigeration Guidelines:

   Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. Once in the fridge, the curry will last for about 3 to 4 days.

   If you don’t think you’ll eat it within that time frame, freezing is a great option. Always ensure that the curry is stored in a portion size that you plan to consume at one time to avoid repeated thawing and refreezing.

4. Reheating the Curry:

   When reheating, it’s best to use a stovetop or microwave, depending on your preference. If reheating on the stove, gently simmer the curry over low heat to avoid separating the sauce.

   Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If you’re using a microwave, cover the dish to prevent splattering, and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure the curry is heated through evenly.

5. Freezing the Curry:

   Freezing is a great option for long-term storage, and it works particularly well with chicken curry. If you’ve made a big batch, consider freezing it in individual portions so you can easily defrost what you need.

   When freezing, ensure the curry is fully cooled, and leave a little room in the container for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

6. Keep the Rice Separate:

   If you’ve made rice to go along with your curry, it’s best to store it separately. Rice can become dry and hard when stored in a curry sauce for extended periods, so keep them in different containers. This will maintain both the curry’s and rice’s ideal textures.

What Goes Well With Lucinda’s Chicken Curry

While Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is flavorful and satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the entire meal. Here are some options that complement the rich, spiced flavors of the curry:

1. Basmati Rice:

   Basmati rice is the classic pairing with curry. Its long, fluffy grains absorb the sauce wonderfully, balancing out the bold spices of the curry. You can opt for plain basmati rice, or for a more aromatic twist, cook the rice with a bit of cinnamon, cardamom, or bay leaves to enhance its fragrance.

2. Naan or Roti:

   Soft, pillowy naan or crispy roti is perfect for sopping up the sauce of the curry. You can also try garlic naan or butter naan for an extra layer of flavor, or opt for whole wheat roti for a more rustic, slightly nutty taste.

3. Cucumber Raita:

   A cooling raita made with yogurt and cucumber is an excellent accompaniment to the heat of the curry. The creamy texture of the yogurt, combined with the refreshing cucumber, offers a soothing contrast to the spiciness of the chicken curry. You can also add a bit of mint or cumin to the raita for extra flavor.

4. Mango Chutney:

   A dollop of sweet and tangy mango chutney adds a burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the curry. The slight sweetness of the chutney balances the heat and spices of the dish, providing a delightful contrast.

5. Steamed Vegetables:

   Steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans can provide a light, healthy contrast to the richness of the curry. Their neutral flavors also help to absorb some of the curry sauce, making each bite more satisfying.

6. Pickled Vegetables:

   Indian-style pickles (achar) made from mango, lime, or mixed vegetables are an excellent way to add a zingy, tangy element to the meal. The sharpness of the pickles works perfectly with the creamy, savory curry.

7. Fresh Herbs:

   A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or mint leaves just before serving adds a burst of freshness and color. These herbs brighten up the dish, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming the curry’s spices.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is an iconic dish that combines the warmth of spices with the comfort of tender chicken in a rich, flavorful sauce. Its versatility allows for a variety of easy recipe adaptations, whether you want to make it creamier, spice it up, or create a vegetarian alternative. The curry’s depth of flavor is complemented perfectly by sides like basmati rice, naan, and cooling raita, elevating the dish to a full meal.

Storing leftovers is simple with proper refrigeration or freezing, ensuring you can enjoy the curry again without sacrificing its quality. With a few simple tips, you can enhance your dining experience by pairing it with complementary sides and condiments. Whether you’re preparing the dish for a special occasion or simply looking for a comforting meal, Lucinda’s Chicken Curry remains a timeless favorite that is sure to please any palate.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry Recipe?

Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, spiced curry sauce. The recipe is known for its balanced use of spices, offering a mild yet fragrant curry that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

What Are The Main Ingredients In Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

The main ingredients in Lucinda’s Chicken Curry include chicken thighs or breasts, onions, garlic, ginger, ground coriander, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and tomatoes. It’s also made with coconut milk for a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness.

Can I Substitute Coconut Milk In Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative or want to modify the flavor, you can substitute coconut milk with cream, yogurt, or even stock, though this may alter the richness and flavor of the curry slightly.

How Spicy Is Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is not very spicy. It is more aromatic with a mild to moderate heat level, thanks to the careful use of spices like paprika and cumin. If you prefer a spicier version, you can adjust the heat by adding chili or cayenne pepper.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

The cooking time for Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is approximately 45 minutes. This includes time for preparing the ingredients and simmering the curry to allow the flavors to meld. It’s a relatively quick recipe for a flavorful homemade curry.

Can I Make Lucinda’s Chicken Curry Ahead Of Time?

Yes, Lucinda’s Chicken Curry can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Just refrigerate the curry once cooled and reheat before serving.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

Lucinda’s Chicken Curry is typically served with steamed rice, naan bread, or even a side of vegetables. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or raita to balance the richness of the curry.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Meat For Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats such as lamb, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. However, you may need to adjust cooking times based on the type of meat you’re using.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of Lucinda’s Chicken Curry?

Leftover Lucinda’s Chicken Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it is thoroughly heated to piping hot before serving.

Is Mary Berry’s Lucinda’s Chicken Curry Suitable For People With Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, Lucinda’s Chicken Curry can be adapted for various dietary needs. It is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by using coconut milk and adjusting any other ingredients accordingly. Always check labels and adjust as needed for specific allergies or preferences.