Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry offers a vibrant, aromatic twist on a classic curry dish, blending a rich mix of spices and fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the heart of Bali. This dish is perfect for those who love exploring exotic flavors with easy-to-follow cooking steps.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry is a delightful fusion of fresh, bold flavors typical of Balinese cuisine. It combines tender chicken pieces cooked in a coconut milk-based sauce, enriched with aromatic spices such as turmeric, coriander, ginger, and lemongrass.

The dish is known for its light, yet intensely flavorful broth, which gets its complexity from the addition of ingredients like garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs, giving it a uniquely fragrant and delicious profile. It’s a fantastic dish to create a little slice of Bali in your own kitchen, offering a beautiful balance between savory, spicy, and creamy textures.

Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken – Skinless, boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Coconut Milk – The base of the curry, which gives it a creamy texture.
3. Lemongrass – Fresh lemongrass stalks to impart a citrusy, aromatic flavor.
4. Ginger – Fresh, finely grated ginger to add a warm, zesty note.
5. Garlic – Minced garlic for a savory foundation.
6. Shallots – Sliced shallots add sweetness and depth.
7. Coriander – Ground coriander for a mild, citrus-like flavor.
8. Turmeric – Ground turmeric for a vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor.
9. Chili – Fresh chilies to add some heat and spice (adjust to preference).
10. Lime – Fresh lime juice for acidity and brightness.
11. Fish Sauce – To balance the richness of the curry with umami flavor.
12. Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the flavors.
13. Vegetable or Coconut Oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
14. Fresh Cilantro – For garnish and added freshness.
15. Rice – Steamed jasmine rice to serve alongside the curry.

Equipment Needed

You will need the following kitchen equipment to prepare Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry:

1. Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for making the curry base and simmering everything together.
2. Knife and chopping board – For preparing all the fresh ingredients like garlic, shallots, ginger, and chicken.
3. Grater – For grating fresh ginger and lime zest.
4. Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the curry and sautéing the aromatics.
5. Measuring spoons and cups – To ensure the right amounts of spices, sauces, and other ingredients.
6. Serving bowls – For serving the curry and rice.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry?

1. Prepare The Aromatics

   • Finely chop the garlic, shallots, and ginger. Lightly bash the lemongrass with the back of a knife to release its oils, then chop it into smaller pieces.

2. Cook The Chicken

   • Heat some oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

3. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In the same pot, add the chopped garlic, shallots, ginger, and lemongrass. Sauté until they become fragrant and soften, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add The Spices

   • Sprinkle in the ground turmeric and coriander, stirring them into the aromatics to toast them lightly and release their flavors for 1-2 minutes.

5. Make The Curry Sauce

   • Add the coconut milk to the pot, stirring it in with the aromatics and spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Simmer The Chicken

   • Return the chicken to the pot. Stir in the fish sauce, brown sugar, and chopped fresh chili, adjusting the heat level to your taste. Let the curry simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

7. Finish The Dish

   • Add a squeeze of lime juice and taste the curry, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a richer taste, you can add more coconut milk.

8. Serve

   • Serve the Balinese Chicken Curry over steamed jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and extra lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

Expert Tips

1. Use Chicken Thighs – While chicken breasts work well, chicken thighs are much juicier and will absorb the curry’s flavors better, making them an ideal choice for this recipe.
2. Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the number of chilies used, or deseed them before adding. On the other hand, if you like it spicier, add extra chilies or a dash of chili paste.
3. Make It Ahead – This curry can be made a day ahead, as the flavors deepen and improve after resting. Simply store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before serving.
4. Vegetarian Option – For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu or vegetables like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and peas.

Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry is a delightful dish that beautifully combines bold flavors, comforting textures, and a touch of exotic flair. It’s a perfect way to bring a piece of Bali into your kitchen and enjoy an easy yet impressive meal with your loved ones.

The combination of tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and aromatic spices will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner or create a feast for a special occasion, this curry is guaranteed to impress.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry offers a wonderful blend of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, creating a rich, flavorful dish that can easily be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Below are some easy variations to personalize this dish:

1. Vegetarian Or Vegan Version

   • Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein. Firm tofu works well because it holds its shape and soaks up the curry sauce beautifully. If you’re looking for a nutty flavor, tempeh is also a great choice.
   • For the coconut milk, opt for a dairy-free version to keep it vegan-friendly. Coconut cream can also be used for a richer texture.

2. Add Extra Heat

   • If you prefer a spicier curry, increase the amount of fresh red chilies or add some sliced bird’s eye chilies. You could also include a dash of chili paste or chili flakes to adjust the heat to your liking.
   • To enhance the heat with a tangy twist, add some lime zest or tamarind paste for an extra zing that complements the spices beautifully.

3. Enhance The Aromatic Spices

   • Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cinnamon, cloves, or star anise to bring even more depth of flavor. These spices are often used in Indonesian cuisine and will pair wonderfully with the other ingredients in the curry.
   • For a smoky flavor, a spoonful of smoked paprika can add a lovely dimension to the curry.

4. Add Vegetables

   • You can easily incorporate vegetables into the dish. Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips will not only absorb the curry’s flavor but also provide additional texture and color.
   • Leafy greens like spinach, kale, or bok choy are a great addition toward the end of cooking, giving the curry a fresh and vibrant finish.

5. Herb Substitutes

   • While Jamie Oliver’s recipe might call for cilantro or mint, feel free to replace them with other herbs like basil or parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro. Fresh basil brings a lovely sweetness, while parsley offers a subtle earthiness.

6. Serving Variations

   • For a different twist, serve the curry with quinoa, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free alternative. For a more substantial meal, you could even pair it with a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or a side of steamed dumplings to absorb all the delicious curry sauce.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly is crucial to maintaining the flavor and texture of Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry. Here are some tips to ensure your leftovers stay fresh:

1. Cool And Refrigerate Promptly

   • Once you’ve finished eating, allow the curry to cool at room temperature for no more than two hours before refrigerating it. The quicker you cool the curry, the less risk of bacterial growth.
   • Divide the curry into smaller portions for quicker cooling, especially if you’re storing a large batch.

2. Store In Airtight Containers

   • Use airtight containers to store your leftovers. This prevents the curry from absorbing any other smells in the fridge and helps maintain its fresh flavor.

3. Refrigeration

   • Store the curry in the fridge for up to 3 days. After this, it’s best to either freeze or discard any remaining portions to ensure food safety.

4. Freezing For Longer Storage

   • If you want to keep the curry for a longer period, you can freeze it. Transfer the cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Make sure to label the containers with the date so you can track its freshness.
   • Frozen Balinese Chicken Curry can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight or reheat it gently in a pan, adding a little water or coconut milk to revive the sauce if necessary.

5. Reheating

   • When reheating your leftovers, do so thoroughly. Reheat the curry on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain its creamy texture and ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

What Goes Well With Balinese Chicken Curry?

Balinese Chicken Curry is packed with rich flavors, and pairing it with complementary sides can create a balanced and enjoyable meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to accompany your curry:

1. Rice

   • A classic pairing with curry is steamed jasmine rice or basmati rice, which is aromatic and fluffy. The rice soaks up the curry sauce perfectly and balances the spice and richness.
   • For a more exotic option, try serving the curry with coconut rice. The added sweetness of the coconut will complement the spiciness of the curry.

2. Flatbreads

   • Soft, warm naan or roti is ideal for scooping up the curry, providing a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy sauce. Garlic naan, in particular, enhances the flavor profile of the curry.

3. Salads

   • A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette can be a great palate cleanser between bites of the rich and spicy curry. The crispness of the salad cuts through the creaminess of the dish and adds a refreshing balance.
   • A Thai-inspired slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy lime dressing would also provide a lovely crunch and citrusy zing that pairs well with the Balinese curry.

4. Pickles And Chutneys

   • Add a bit of tangy and spicy zing to your meal with a side of mango chutney or pickle. The sweetness of the chutney balances the spice, while a tangy pickle will enhance the curry’s flavors with its sourness.

5. Steamed Vegetables

   • Lightly steamed vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, or cauliflower provide a neutral contrast to the flavorful curry. Their simplicity lets the curry shine without overpowering it.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry is a vibrant, aromatic dish that encapsulates the warmth and complexity of Indonesian flavors. With easy variations, you can tweak the recipe to match your dietary preferences or spice tolerance, ensuring that every version is just as delightful as the original.

Storing leftovers properly will allow you to enjoy this curry for several days, while pairing it with a variety of sides like rice, flatbreads, or refreshing salads can elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress with its bold, delicious taste and the endless possibilities for customization.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry?

The key ingredients include skinless, boneless chicken thighs, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, red chilies, shallots, turmeric, coriander seeds, coconut milk, and lime leaves. Fresh herbs like cilantro and a squeeze of lime typically finish the dish.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry Spicy?

Yes, it has a moderate level of heat due to the inclusion of red chilies. However, the spice level can be adjusted by removing the seeds from the chilies or using fewer chilies altogether.

Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs With Chicken Breasts?

While chicken breasts can be used, chicken thighs are recommended as they remain juicier and more flavorful during the slow simmering process. Breasts may dry out if overcooked.

Is This Curry Suitable For Freezing?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s Balinese chicken curry freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed.

What Can I Serve With Balinese Chicken Curry?

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is a classic pairing. You can also serve it with flatbreads, pickled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the rich flavors.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Balinese Chicken Curry?

Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, and the cooking time is roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the flavors to fully develop and the chicken to become tender.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a medley of vegetables like eggplant, sweet potato, and mushrooms. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock if included.

What Makes This Curry ‘Balinese’ In Style?

Balinese cuisine is known for its aromatic spice pastes, often containing ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, chilies, and shallots. Jamie Oliver’s version captures these traditional flavors in a Western-friendly format.

Can I Use Store-bought Curry Paste Instead Of Making It From Scratch?

While homemade paste offers the best flavor, you can use a high-quality Balinese or Indonesian curry paste from a specialty store as a time-saving alternative.

Are There Any Common Allergens In This Recipe?

Yes, potential allergens include coconut (from coconut milk) and possibly shrimp paste (if used in the spice mix). Always check the labels of packaged ingredients and modify the recipe to suit dietary needs.