Caril de Galinha de Dili (Timorese Roasted-Coconut, Lemongrass & Tamarind Chicken Curry) – Authentic Timor-Leste Recipe

Ingredients for Caril de Galinha de Dili (Timorese Roasted-Coconut, Lemongrass & Tamarind Chicken Curry) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) chicken thigh pieces, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups quartered potatoes, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup steamed jasmine rice
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with toasted grated coconut
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Timor-Leste seasoning (lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, garlic, tamarind splash)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a heavy Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat; brown chicken thigh pieces for 5 minutes.
2. Add minced onion, garlic, toasted grated coconut, and lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, garlic, tamarind splash, stirring for 2 minutes until deeply aromatic.
3. Add quartered potatoes and pour in the braising liquid; bring to a lively simmer.
4. Cover and braise over medium-low heat for 20–22 minutes until meltingly tender and the sauce is rich and glossy.
5. Stir in steamed jasmine rice right before serving warm.