CHICKEN WITH COCONUT MILK, LEMONGRASS, AND GINGER

 

 

1/4 cup peanut oil
1/4 cup finely chopped onions
4 dried cayenne chilies
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
2 tablespoons minced fresh lemongrass
2 cups diced peeled cooked potatoes
1 tablespoon toasted black cumin seeds, ground
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
6 ounces coconut milk
6 ounces half-and-half
Coarse salt, to taste
Two 2 1/2-pound whole chickens, cut into serving pieces

 

1. Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onions and chilies and lower the heat. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and well caramelized.

2. Stir in the ginger and lemongrass and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the potatoes and stir to combine. Stir in the black cumin and turmeric. When the spices are well incorporated, stir in the coconut milk and the half-and half. Add salt and remove from the heat.

3.Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.

4.Place the chicken in a Dutch oven or another large heavy ovenproof casserole. Pour the coconut mixture over the top of the chicken. Cover and bake for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is very tender.

5. Serve, family style, with basmati rice, a green salad, and warm Indian breads.

Note: In India, the chilies would be left in the finished dish, but if you are concerned about them being eaten, remove them before serving.

Wine suggestions: Qupe Syrah Louis M. Martini Red Zinfandel

 

Yield: Serves 6