How to Make Delicious Cape Malay Curry: Step-by-Step Recipe

Cape Malay Curry is a fragrant and mildly spiced dish that reflects the Cape Malay community’s rich history in South Africa. This curry blends sweet and savory flavours, using spices like cinnamon, cloves, and turmeric, and is often made with chicken or lamb. It’s perfect for a comforting, flavourful meal.

Ingredients

  • 500g chicken thighs (or lamb)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon apricot jam (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk or plain yogurt
  • 2 potatoes, cubed
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh coriander, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Curry Base:
    • Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
    • Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
  2. Add Spices:
    • Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves.
    • Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
  3. Cook the Meat:
    • Add the chicken or lamb to the pot, stirring to coat it with the spices.
    • Cook for about 5 minutes until the meat begins to brown.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Potatoes:
    • Add the chopped tomatoes, cubed potatoes, and apricot jam.
    • Stir well and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Simmer and Cook:
    • Pour in the coconut milk (or yogurt) and stir to combine.
    • Lower the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
  6. Add Raisins (Optional):
    • For a touch of sweetness, stir in the raisins in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  7. Season and Serve:
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with fluffy basmati rice or yellow rice.
  • Add sambals (chopped tomato, cucumber, and onion) on the side for freshness.
  • Enjoy with a side of roti or naan bread to soak up the flavorful curry sauce.

Cultural Note

Cape Malay Curry is a beautiful reflection of South Africa’s cultural fusion, with roots in the cuisine brought by Malay slaves to the Cape during the 17th century. This dish is a staple at family gatherings and is beloved for its balanced use of spices and subtle sweetness.