Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry is a delicious and inventive way to use up leftover turkey, transforming it into a flavorful and hearty meal. Perfect for after the holidays, it combines bold spices and tender turkey for a dish that is both comforting and exciting.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry is a vibrant, aromatic dish designed to use leftover turkey, typically from a holiday meal like Thanksgiving or Christmas. The curry is packed with layers of flavor, thanks to a rich blend of spices such as cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala.

The turkey is simmered in a creamy, tomato-based sauce, making the dish rich, satisfying, and full of warm, earthy flavors. The recipe can be adjusted for spiciness and also allows for the addition of vegetables like spinach or peas, making it a versatile and enjoyable meal for all tastes.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Leftover turkey (roughly chopped)
• Onions (2 large, finely chopped)
• Garlic cloves (4, minced)
• Fresh ginger (a small piece, grated)
• Canned tomatoes (1 can)
• Coconut milk (1 can)
• Curry powder (2 tablespoons)
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric (1 teaspoon)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• Rice or naan bread (for serving)

You can adjust the quantities of spices based on your preferences and desired heat level.

Equipment Needed

To prepare the Turkey Curry, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large frying pan or skillet (for sautéing onions, garlic, and spices)
• Saucepan (for simmering the curry)
• Knife (for chopping vegetables and turkey)
• Chopping board
• Wooden spoon (for stirring)
• Grater (for ginger, if not using pre-minced)
• Ladle (for serving the curry)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry?

1. Prepare your ingredients: Begin by chopping the leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and grate the fresh ginger.
2. Cook the onions: In a large pan, heat a drizzle of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook them until softened and golden, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Spices: Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Allow the spices to cook for a minute, releasing their aromas and flavor.
5. Add tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon. Let this mixture simmer for 5 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
6. Add coconut milk and turkey: Pour in the coconut milk, and stir to combine. Add the chopped leftover turkey pieces, making sure they are well coated with the sauce. Let everything simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the turkey to absorb the curry flavors.
7. Season and finish: Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish. If desired, add fresh spinach or peas for extra flavor and texture.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve the curry over rice or with warm naan bread.

Expert Tips

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder or add some chili flakes if you prefer a spicier curry.
• Use Fresh Turkey: If you don’t have leftover turkey, you can use fresh chicken or even a mixture of other meats or vegetables.
• Make Ahead: This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.
• Customize the Veggies: Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or sweet potatoes for a more hearty and nutritious curry.
• Coconut Milk Substitute: If you’re not fond of coconut milk, you can swap it with cream or a dairy-free milk alternative to suit your dietary needs.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry is an incredibly satisfying dish that not only makes good use of leftover turkey but also offers a burst of warm and rich flavors. It’s simple to make, requires minimal effort, and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening or serving it to guests, this curry is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for more. Perfect for reducing food waste while creating something deliciously comforting, it’s a recipe you’ll likely want to keep in your regular dinner rotation.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry

Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few easy variations to make the dish even more exciting and suited to your taste:

1. Spicy Turkey Curry

   If you love heat, you can increase the level of spiciness in the curry. Adding chopped fresh chilies, such as Thai bird’s eye chilies or serrano peppers, will give it an extra kick.

   Alternatively, toss in some chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a more subtle, smokier heat. Pair this with cooling elements like yogurt or coconut milk to balance the spiciness.

2. Vegetable-Loaded Turkey Curry

   To make the curry more hearty and nutrient-packed, add a variety of vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, peas, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower are excellent choices.

   You can even throw in leafy greens such as spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins. Just chop them up and let them simmer until tender before serving.

3. Creamy Coconut Turkey Curry

   For a richer and more luxurious version of the curry, incorporate coconut milk or coconut cream. This creates a smooth, velvety texture that complements the spices beautifully.

   Coconut milk also imparts a slight sweetness, making the curry even more indulgent. If you prefer a lighter curry, use low-fat coconut milk to reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.

4. Mango or Pineapple Turkey Curry

   For a sweet-and-sour twist, try adding chunks of mango or pineapple. The sweetness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the spices in the curry, creating a tropical fusion. You can add fresh fruit near the end of the cooking process, or opt for canned fruit if you’re in a pinch.

5. Herb-Infused Turkey Curry

   Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your turkey curry. While Jamie’s recipe already calls for coriander, you can experiment by adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme, rosemary, or mint for different aromatic notes. For a more Mediterranean flair, you can include dried oregano and basil.

6. Turkey & Lentil Curry

   If you’re looking to make your curry more filling and add some plant-based protein, lentils are a perfect addition. Red or green lentils work well and will absorb the flavors of the curry, adding texture and richness. Be sure to adjust cooking times to ensure the lentils soften fully, and use vegetable broth to make the dish even more robust.

7. Butter Turkey Curry

   For a more decadent version of the curry, you can mimic the rich flavors of a butter chicken curry by adding a generous amount of butter or ghee. This will give the curry a smoother, more luxurious finish. You can also drizzle a bit of cream or yogurt on top when serving for added richness.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers are a fantastic way to enjoy your turkey curry another day, but proper storage is key to ensuring it stays fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips for storing your curry:

1. Cool Down Quickly

   Before storing your turkey curry, allow it to cool down to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to avoid bacteria growth. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the curry pot in a sink filled with ice water or transfer it to shallow containers.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   For optimal storage, use airtight containers to keep your leftovers. Glass containers with tightly fitting lids are ideal as they prevent moisture from escaping and ensure the curry remains fresh for longer. Alternatively, plastic containers with tight seals also work well.

3. Refrigeration

   Store your curry in the fridge if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. Make sure it is fully sealed to prevent air exposure, which can cause the curry to lose its flavor and quality. Label the containers with the date they were made so you can track how long they’ve been stored.

4. Freezing Leftovers

   If you want to keep your turkey curry for longer, freezing is a great option. Transfer the cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, ensuring there is no excess air.

   Frozen curry can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly on the stove.

5. Reheating Tips

   When reheating, avoid using the microwave if you want to preserve the texture of the curry. The microwave can heat unevenly, leaving parts of the dish overcooked while others remain cold.

   Instead, reheat your curry in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the curry has thickened too much in the fridge, add a little water or stock to return it to the right consistency.

What Goes Well With Turkey Curry?

While turkey curry is a flavorful and satisfying dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside your turkey curry:

1. Basmati Rice

   A classic side for any curry, basmati rice is aromatic and fluffy, soaking up the delicious curry sauce. You can also try other types of rice, like jasmine or brown rice, if you prefer something different.

2. Naan Bread

   Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up curry and making the meal feel even more indulgent. You can serve plain naan, or opt for garlic or butter naan for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Raita

   A cool, refreshing cucumber raita is a great contrast to the spiciness of the curry. Made with yogurt, cucumber, mint, and spices, it helps balance out the heat while adding a creamy element to the meal.

4. Saag (Spinach)

   A side of saag or saag paneer (spinach with paneer) is another wonderful accompaniment to turkey curry. The earthiness of the spinach pairs well with the richness of the curry, making it a great addition to the plate.

5. Pickles and Chutneys

   Indian pickles, such as mango or lime, add a sharp and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the curry. Similarly, chutneys-whether sweet or spicy-make a great complement.

6. Simple Salad

   A light salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a citrusy dressing can add a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the curry. A simple salad with lemon, olive oil, and herbs is a light option to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry is an incredibly versatile dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. By exploring different recipe variations, you can customize it to be as spicy, creamy, or vegetable-filled as you like.

Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this hearty dish again and again, and when paired with the right sides, your turkey curry becomes a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to make it lighter or richer, more flavorful or milder, this turkey curry can easily become a staple in your kitchen for every season and occasion.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry recipe is a flavorful dish designed to use up leftover turkey, usually after a holiday meal. The recipe typically includes ingredients such as turkey meat, coconut milk, fresh ginger, garlic, onions, curry powder, and a variety of vegetables, cooked together to create a rich, comforting curry. It’s a great way to transform leftovers into a new, delicious meal.

Can I Use Chicken Instead Of Turkey In Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for turkey in Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry. The flavor and texture will be slightly different, but chicken works well in this recipe. Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the curry sauce.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Take To Cook?

The total cooking time for Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry is typically around 30 to 45 minutes. The prep time is relatively short, but it allows enough time for the flavors to meld together as the curry simmers.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry In Advance?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve if left to rest overnight.

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving. You can also freeze the curry for later use.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Spicy?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry is typically mildly spiced, with a balanced flavor profile that can be adjusted based on your spice preferences. If you prefer a spicier curry, you can add more chili, ginger, or extra curry powder.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry is best served with basmati rice or naan bread. You can also serve it with a side of vegetables, such as roasted carrots or a simple green salad, to complete the meal.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Vegetarian?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry vegetarian by substituting the turkey with a variety of vegetables like cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or chickpeas. You can also use tofu or tempeh for added protein.

What Kind Of Curry Powder Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry?

For Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry, you can use a mild or medium curry powder depending on your heat preference. A garam masala or turmeric-based curry powder is commonly used in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other blends for unique flavors.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry Creamier?

To make Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry creamier, you can add more coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream towards the end of cooking. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if needed, but keep the curry thick and rich.

Can I Use Pre-cooked Turkey For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Curry?

Yes, using pre-cooked turkey is ideal for Jamie Oliver’s turkey curry as it helps reduce cooking time. Simply add the cooked turkey towards the end of the cooking process, just long enough to heat it through.