Kid’s Curry (Annabel Karmel)

There’s something magical about a curry that even the pickiest of eaters will devour. I remember when my son, Leo, was going through his “everything is yucky” phase. Meal times were a battleground of furrowed brows and pursed lips. Then, one evening, I decided to try Annabel Karmel’s Kid’s Curry. The sweet aroma filled the kitchen, a promise of something special. Leo, surprisingly, took a tentative bite, his eyes widening in delight. The battle was over; we had a winner!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Kid-Friendly

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, peeled and chopped
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1 medium apple, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1 tablespoon korma curry paste
• ½ tablespoon mango chutney
• 1 tablespoon tomato puree
• 100 g frozen peas
• 150 ml coconut milk
• 1 chicken stock cube, dissolved in 150 ml boiling water
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper

Equipment Needed

• Wok or large frying pan
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned.
3. Add the crushed garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the thinly sliced apple and stir-fry for 3 minutes, allowing the apple to soften slightly.
5. Add the bite-sized chunks of chicken breast to the pan and stir-fry for 4 minutes, or until the chicken is sealed on all sides and lightly browned.
6. Stir in the korma curry paste, mango chutney, and tomato puree. Ensure everything is well combined and coats the chicken and vegetables.
7. Add the frozen peas, coconut milk, and chicken stock (made with 150ml boiling water).
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be mindful when adding salt, especially if serving to young children.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice Level: Korma curry paste is generally mild, making it perfect for kids. If you prefer a bit more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or sweet potato to increase the nutritional value and visual appeal. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Chicken Alternative: You can substitute the chicken breast with diced turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein used.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This curry can be made a day in advance. The flavors will meld together beautifully overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Texture Tweak: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Kid’s Curry warm over a bed of fluffy rice, couscous, or naan bread. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro can add a refreshing touch. You can also serve it with some steamed green beans or broccoli for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently heat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook the chicken.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	647.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	397 g	61%
Total Fat	44.2 g	68%
Saturated Fat	20.2 g	100%
Cholesterol	93.1 mg	31%
Sodium	738.4 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrate	30.2 g	10%
Dietary Fiber	6.6 g	26%
Sugars	14.8 g	59%
Protein	36.2 g	72%

*Percentage Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based protein source. Ensure you use a vegetable stock cube instead of chicken stock.
• Dairy-Free Delight: This recipe is already dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut milk. Ensure your mango chutney doesn’t contain any dairy ingredients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Serve the curry with rice or quinoa instead of naan bread. Double-check that your curry paste doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.
• Seasonal Adaptation: In the fall, add some butternut squash or pumpkin to the curry for a seasonal twist. In the summer, consider adding some fresh corn kernels or zucchini.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of curry paste?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for korma curry paste (due to its mildness), you can experiment with other types like tikka masala or madras, but be mindful of the spice level, especially for children.

Q: My child doesn’t like coconut milk. Can I substitute it?
A: Yes, you can substitute the coconut milk with plain yogurt or even cream (if no dairy allergies exist). The flavor and texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the curry?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables your child enjoys. Some good options include carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How can I make this curry smoother for younger babies?
A: You can blend the curry with an immersion blender after cooking to create a smoother texture for babies who are just starting solids.

Q: Is it safe to freeze and reheat this curry?
A: Yes, this curry freezes and reheats very well. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave.

Final Thoughts

Annabel Karmel’s Kid’s Curry is a delightful and versatile recipe that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Its mild flavor and customizable ingredients make it a perfect option for introducing children to the wonderful world of curry. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create a dish that perfectly suits your family’s tastes. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. I encourage you to try it out, share your creations, and let me know how it goes! Perhaps serve it with a side of cooling raita for a complete and balanced meal. Happy cooking!