Easy Vietnamese Inspired Chicken Curry Ca Ri Ga Recipe

I absolutely love this chicken curry recipe because it’s the perfect blend of comforting flavors and vibrant spices that make any dinner feel like a cozy, homemade treat. Plus, the creamy coconut milk paired with a hint of lime adds a delightful tropical twist that I just can’t get enough of!

Enjoy a cozy bowl of Easy Vietnamese Inspired Chicken Curry Ca Ri Ga. Bone-in chicken pieces simmer with coconut milk and a diverse selection of spices—curry and turmeric among them—that result in richly flavored, tender meat.

I also appreciate how the recipe uses an abundance of vibrant vegetables, like carrots and red bell pepper, that not only infuse the dish with color but also offer a wealth of healthful nutrients.

Ingredients

Coconut milk: Full of good-for-you fats, lends creaminess and a whisper of sweetness.

Fish Sauce: Offers umami richness and slight saltiness.

Curry powder: An attractive spice mix, offers a vibrant flavor.

Turmeric powder: Anti-inflammatory, contributes brilliant color and a deep, earthy flavor.

Protein-rich, chicken makes the dish hearty and filling.

Source of fiber and carbs, deliver natural sweetness.

Sweetness, color, and a vitamin C boost are what the red bell pepper adds.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 1/2 pounds (about 700g) bone-in chicken pieces (such as thighs or drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 3 cups (about 720ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (about 240ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a big pot, warm the vegetable oil over a medium flame. Toss in the sliced onion and soften until see-through, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

2. Minced garlic and ginger are added to the pot and sautéed for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander, and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to become aromatic.

4. Stir in the chicken pieces, making sure to coat them well with the spice mixture. Cook the chicken until it begins to brown, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Add the coconut milk and chicken broth, and mix until combined. Turn heat down and let it all simmer together.

6. Add the sugar and fish sauce, stirring to mix everything very well indeed.

7. Incorporate the carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper into the pot. Mix them well to ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed.

8. Put the lid on the pot and allow the curry to simmer until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the veggies are tender, about 25-30 minutes. Give it a stir now and then to keep things moving and prevent sticking.

9. Season with salt and pepper as needed. For a more robust flavor, try adding extra fish sauce or sugar to taste.

10. Serve the curry steaming, decorated with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the top. Relish with rice or crusty bread.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot with lid
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Chef’s knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Peeler
8. Ladle

FAQ

• What cut of chicken is best for Ca Ri Ga?Curries benefit most from the meatiest parts of the animal, those closest to the bones. For the deepest, richest flavor, choose chicken thighs or drumsticks. They have both tenderness and flavor in abundance.
• Can I use light coconut milk instead of regular?Certainly, yet employing standard coconut milk will yield a curry that is even richer and creamier.
• Is there an alternative for fish sauce?You can use soy sauce as a substitute, but it will change the flavor a bit.
• How can I make the curry spicier?Fresh chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to ramp up the spice factor.
• Can this curry be made in advance?Certainly! It can be prepared a day in advance, and flavors frequently intensify, causing it to taste even better the following day.
• How do I store leftovers?Keep in a container with a tight seal, placed in the cold part of the fridge for no more than 3 days. Or, to make storage more convenient, place in a container with a lid and keep in the freezer for up to 30 days.

Substitutions and Variations

Chicken pieces with bones: Chicken thighs or drumsticks without bones can be used when a faster cooking time is required.
Oil from vegetables: Instead, one can make use of canola oil or peanut oil.
Coconut milk: Substitute with a mix of coconut cream (1 part) and water (1 part) for a creamier texture.
Sauce de poisson : La sauce soja peut être utilisée pour un goût moins prononcé.
Sweet potatoes can be an alternative to potatoes if you’re looking for something with a slightly sweeter flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Sear the Chicken First For extra flavor, consider searing the chicken pieces in the vegetable oil until they are golden brown before removing them to cook the onions and spices. This adds depth to the dish and enhances the overall taste.

2. Bloom the Spices When adding the curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander, ensure they are cooked for a full minute in the oil. This process, known as blooming, will intensify their flavors and make the curry more fragrant.

3. Adjust Coconut Milk Consistency Depending on your preference, you can adjust the thickness of the curry by controlling the amount of coconut milk. For a richer curry, use full-fat coconut milk, or opt for light coconut milk for a thinner sauce.

4. Pre-cook Vegetables To ensure that the carrots and potatoes cook evenly, you can lightly parboil them before adding them to the curry. This step helps maintain their texture and ensures they are perfectly tender by the end of the cooking process.

5. Rest Before Serving Allowing the curry to rest for about 10 minutes off the heat before serving can help the flavors meld together, providing a more cohesive and delicious taste.