Sri Lankan Coconut Rice and Chicken Curry: A Gluten-Free Mouthwatering Dinner Masterpiece

Allergens

None, if using a gluten-free chicken broth substitute.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup canned coconut milk
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and the rinsed rice to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the shredded coconut and chicken broth to the rice, then cover and simmer for another 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, paprika, ground black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Cook for 1 2 minutes to release the aroma of the spices.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Pour in the coconut milk and enough chicken broth to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the coconut rice alongside the chicken curry, garnishing each plate with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Chef’s Insight

The key to this recipe is balancing the flavors and textures - from the creamy coconut rice to the tender, spice-infused chicken. Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as it should be moist and succulent.

Notes

Be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and double-check the labels on any packaged ingredients for potential allergens.