The Best Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

The Chicken Samlá Curry recipe is a popular and widely available soupy dish in Cambodia. It may be eaten as a soup or poured over rice as a stew. Samlá is distinguished by its rich, soupy broth made from coconut milk. It tastes similar to Thai yellow curry, but with different spices.

The predominant flavor and scent of this curry comes from the lemongrass that serves as the main component. To ensure that you enjoy your meal as much as I do, I have made a few adjustments to the ingredients and proportions from the original recipe.

I’ve cheated somewhat by using more than the called-for amount of fresh Thai chilies in place of the dried kind called for in the original recipe. It doesn’t make things spicy, but it does offer additional nuance and complexity to the meal to balance out the sweetness of the coconut milk.

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The whole neighborhood will be able to smell the shrimp paste in this Chicken Samlá Curry recipe. You could leave that out, but then you wouldn’t get the whole picture. The odor, nevertheless, is real!!

Chicken Samlá Curry recipe distinctive flavor comes from a special combination of spices and aromatics (known as the kroueng in Thai). This is where the magic happens: crushing and grinding the ingredients to release their flavors. You may use a mortar and pestle if you have the time and patience (it’s also a terrific stress reliever).

Making this will take some time, so to save time throughout the week, I suggest preparing a big quantity and freezing it in individual servings. Although it’s nice when everything is made from scratch, these days it seems like nobody has the time.

3 Reasons People Love the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

1. Rich Flavor: One of the main reasons people love Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe is its rich and complex flavor. The blend of fresh herbs, spices, and coconut milk creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is both savory and mildly sweet.

2. Healthy Ingredients: The ingredients used in Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe are generally healthy and packed with nutrients. The use of fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and healthy fats from coconut milk make this dish a nutritious meal option.

3. Comfort Food: Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for sharing with family and friends. Its rich flavor and hearty ingredients make it a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How To Make Our Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

Ingredients: (8 Servings)

2 lbs chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp lemongrass, minced
2 tbsp samlá paste
1 tbsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp palm sugar
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, etc.)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and lemongrass to the pot and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the samlá paste, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Add the spice mixture to the pot and stir to combine.

5. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

6. Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and let simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

7.Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Nutritional Information For the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

Calories: 383
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 76mg
Sodium: 969mg
Potassium: 728mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pots, Pans, and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Kitchen tongs

Best Way to Store Leftovers From the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

If you have any leftovers from the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is recommended to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days. To reheat the leftovers, you can heat them up in a pot on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.

Substitutions For the Vegetarian Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

Chickpeas: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas to create a vegetarian version of this curry. Chickpeas have a meaty texture and will absorb the flavors of the curry well.
Tofu: Firm tofu is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. Be sure to press out any excess water from the tofu before cooking. Cut the tofu into cubes and add it to the curry towards the end of cooking.
Seitan: Seitan is a protein-rich food made from wheat gluten. It has a meaty texture and can be used in place of chicken in this recipe. Cut the seitan into small pieces and add it to the curry towards the end of cooking.
Vegetables: You can make a vegetable curry by using a variety of vegetables such as eggplant, bell peppers, potatoes, carrots, and green beans. Cut the vegetables into small pieces and add them to the curry along with the coconut milk.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms have a meaty texture and are a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. Use shiitake, oyster, or cremini mushrooms for the best results. Cut the mushrooms into small pieces and add them to the curry towards the end of cooking.
Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP): TVP is a high-protein, low-fat, and low-calorie soy product that is a great substitute for meat in recipes. Rehydrate the TVP with hot water or vegetable broth and add it to the curry towards the end of cooking.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Use pre-cut chicken: Buying pre-cut chicken can save you time and energy when preparing this recipe.
Use a food processor: A food processor can be used to quickly and easily chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.
Make the curry paste in advance: You can make the curry paste ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, saving you time when you’re ready to make the curry.
Use a Dutch oven: A Dutch oven is a great cooking vessel for this recipe as it distributes heat evenly, preventing hot spots that can cause the ingredients to burn.
Use a slotted spoon: When adding the chicken to the pot, use a slotted spoon to remove any excess liquid. This will help the chicken brown properly.
Add vegetables at the right time: Add vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the beginning of the cooking process, while more delicate vegetables like snow peas and bell peppers should be added towards the end to prevent overcooking.

Side Dishes and Desserts For the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

Jasmine rice: Serve the curry with jasmine rice, which is a fragrant and fluffy rice that complements the flavors of the curry.
Naan bread: Naan bread is a traditional Indian flatbread that can be served alongside the curry to soak up the delicious sauce.
Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can be served as a side dish to balance out the spiciness of the curry.
Mango sticky rice: For dessert, serve mango sticky rice, a traditional Thai dessert that pairs well with the flavors of the curry.

How To Serve the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

Serve the curry hot, alongside jasmine rice or naan bread.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
Serve with a side dish such as cucumber salad.
Finish the meal with a sweet dessert such as mango sticky rice.

FAQs About the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry Recipe

What is the difference between Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe and other curries?
Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry is distinct from other curries due to its use of unique herbs and spices like lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and tamarind, which give it a distinctive tangy and sour flavor. It is also lighter in texture compared to other curries and is often served with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Can I use other meats besides chicken in the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe?
Yes, the recipe can be adapted to use other meats such as beef, pork, or even seafood like prawns or fish. You can also make a vegetarian version by using tofu or other meat substitutes.

Is Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry spicy?
While the curry does have some heat, it is not typically as spicy as other Southeast Asian curries. The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less chili peppers or chili powder to the recipe.

What vegetables can I add to the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe?
Traditionally, Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry is served with fresh vegetables like green beans, carrots, eggplant, and mushrooms. However, you can also add other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Can I make a Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe in advance?
Yes, the curry can be made in advance and reheated before serving. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is best to reheat the curry gently over low heat to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.

Final Thoughts

The Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe was one of the many dishes I had during my fascinating travels across the vivid region of Cambodia that completely delighted my palette. As a tourist who fell hopelessly in love with this delicious dish, I wholeheartedly endorse it to everyone in search of a one-of-a-kind and satisfying gastronomic adventure. This is why.

I couldn’t get enough of the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe amazing complexity of flavors from my very first mouthful. Warm, earthy spices like turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal come together in perfect harmony in this delicious curry. The inclusion of coconut milk gives the meal a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture, complementing the dish’s powerful and intense spices.

The use of delicious, delicate chicken chunks is another reason why the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe won my heart. The chicken is marinated in the aromatic curry paste and then carefully cooked to perfection, allowing the chicken to absorb all of the exquisite aromas of the curry.

The attraction of Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe is increased by the addition of a wide variety of vegetables. Taro, green papaya, and pumpkin are just some of the ingredients that give this meal its vibrant color and interesting texture. Their individual tastes complement the flavorful curry sauce, creating a satisfying and healthy lunch.

The distinctive presentation of Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression. Hot, fragrant jasmine rice is served with a heaping portion of curry packed with juicy chicken and fresh veggies. Every bite is a sheer pleasure because to the perfect pairing of the tender, fluffy rice and the thick, fragrant sauce.

Finally, the Cambodian Chicken Samlá Curry recipe is an unforgettable gastronomic experience. This dish’s aromatic warm spices, juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and mouthwatering scent will transport your taste buds on a voyage they won’t soon forget.

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