Chicken Colombo (West Indies)

Chicken Colombo is a well-known dish from the Antilles, particularly in Guadeloupe and Martinique, where it is prepared during family meals. This West Indian curry is a unique fusion of the flavors of Indian spices and local Caribbean produce. Chicken Colombo combines the taste of simmered chicken, root vegetables and a blend of fragrant spices, for a meal rich in exotic flavors. This colorful and fragrant dish will delight your taste buds while being naturally gluten-free, perfect for a convivial meal.

Preparation time 15 mins

Cooking time 1 hour

Rest time 30 mins

Total time 1 hr 45 mins

Difficulty: beginner

Servings: 5

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
3 tablespoons of colombo powder (gluten-free)
3 cloves of garlic, chopped
2 onions, finely chopped
2 carrots, cut into slices
2 sweet potatoes, cut into cubes
1 eggplant, diced
1 zucchini, cut into slices
400 ml water or chicken broth (gluten-free)
1 tbsp vinegar
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 chili pepper (optional)
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lime juice (for the marinade)

Preparation

1
Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the lime juice, salt, pepper and half the colombo powder. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for more flavor).
2
Brown the chicken: In a large casserole dish, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes. Remove and reserve.
3
Brown the vegetables: In the same casserole dish, add the onions, garlic, carrots, eggplant, zucchini and sweet potatoes. Fry them for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
4
Add the colombo: Return the chicken to the casserole dish with the vegetables. Sprinkle the remaining colombo powder and mix well to coat the ingredients.
5
Cooking: Add the bouquet garni, the pepper (if you want a more spicy dish) and pour in the water or gluten-free broth. Cover and simmer over low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6
Finishing: Before serving, remove the bouquet garni and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. You can also add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.
7
Serve: Serve your Chicken Colombo hot, accompanied by basmati rice or Creole rice, for a complete and tasty meal.

Note

For a creamier touch : Add a little coconut milk at the end of cooking for a softer and smoother version.

Keywords: chicken colombo recipe, gluten -free carriers