Backstretch Chef Curry Chicken with Apples and Raisins
A hearty curry chicken stew featuring tender chicken pieces simmered with aromatic spices like turmeric, cardamom, and ginger. The addition of sweet elements like raisins, banana, and Granny Smith apples creates a complex flavor profile that balances the warm spices with natural sweetness. Red potatoes add substance while tomato paste provides depth and richness. This comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, offering an approachable take on curry flavors that pairs beautifully with rice.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed and chopped
- 8 chicken pieces, good-sized breasts thighs legs
- 5 stems fresh thyme
- 2 ½ teaspoons turmeric
- 1 heaping teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon cayenne
- 1 heaping teaspoon ginger
- 2 heaping teaspoons cardamom pods, crushed
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups water, or to cover
- 6 red potatoes, peeled and chunked
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- ½ cup raisins
- 1 banana, chopped
- 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled cored and chunked
Instructions
- 1
Melt butter into vegetable oil in a large pot
- 2
Add onions, garlic, chicken, thyme, turmeric, coriander, cayenne, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom
- 3
Cook stirring over high heat for a few minutes
- 4
Add salt, pepper, and water to barely cover
- 5
Bring to a boil then lower heat and simmer covered for about 12 minutes
- 6
Stir in potatoes and tomato paste
- 7
Cook until water is reduced and potatoes are tender about 12 minutes
- 8
Stir in raisins, bananas and apple and simmer 5 more minutes
- 9
Serve with hot brown rice
Tips
Use chicken pieces on sale to keep costs down while maintaining great flavor
Crush cardamom pods lightly to release oils without breaking them completely
Let the curry simmer uncovered in the final stages to concentrate flavors
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in airtight container
Can be made 1 day ahead and reheated gently
Serve hot over rice or with naan bread
Common Mistakes
Don't skip browning the aromatics to avoid flat flavors
Add fruits at the end to prevent them from breaking down completely
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this curry less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild curry powder instead of individual spices for a gentler heat level.
What if I don't have cardamom pods?
Substitute 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, though the flavor will be less intense than using freshly crushed pods.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting overnight.