Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Recipe

Introduction to Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that offer a unique twist to traditional barbecue skewers. This South African-inspired dish combines tender chicken thighs, tangy apricots, and a rich curry marinade to create a dish that's both exotic and comforting. Perfect for summer barbecues or an impressive dinner party, these sosaties will become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Read on to discover how to make this delectable dish step by step.

What are Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties?

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties are a type of skewered meat dish that originates from South Africa. The word "sosatie" comes from the Malay word "sate," meaning skewered meat, and the Afrikaans word "saus," meaning spicy sauce. These skewers typically feature marinated meat, often with dried fruit such as apricots, threaded onto skewers and then grilled to perfection. The marinade usually includes curry spices, giving the dish its distinctive flavor.

Ingredients List for Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

To make these delicious skewers, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Skewers:

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, cubed

For the Marinade:

• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons Madras curry powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 2 cups dried apricots
• ½ cup smooth apricot jam
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Mrs Ball’s chutney
• 2 bay leaves

Substitutions and Variations

If you need to make some adjustments to the recipe, here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

• Chicken: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even pork tenderloin for a different protein option.
• Apricots: Use fresh apricots or other dried fruits like peaches or dates if dried apricots are unavailable.
• Curry Powder: If you prefer a milder flavor, use a mild curry powder instead of Madras curry powder.
• Chutney: Any fruity chutney can replace Mrs Ball’s chutney, such as mango or apple chutney.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating these flavorful sosaties involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.

How to Cook Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, combine the finely diced onion, crushed garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, and salt.
   • Add the red wine vinegar, smooth apricot jam, olive oil, Mrs Ball’s chutney, and bay leaves.
   • Mix everything well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
   • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
   • Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, alternating with cubed onions and dried apricots.
4. Grill the Sosaties:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
   • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the sosaties from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
   • Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not marinating long enough: Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.
• Overcrowding the grill: Leave enough space between each skewer on the grill to allow even cooking.
• Skipping the skewer soak: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

Serve these sosaties hot off the grill with a side of fluffy rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. The sweetness of the apricots pairs beautifully with a crisp, cool cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of warm naan bread or flatbread to soak up the delicious marinade juices.

Presentation Ideas for Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

Presentation plays a big role in the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your sosaties look as good as they taste:

• Colorful Platter: Arrange the sosaties on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
• Individual Servings: Serve each guest their own skewer on a bed of rice with a small side salad.
• Garnish with Extras: Add a few lemon wedges and a small bowl of extra chutney for added flavor.

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your sosaties are a hit:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled if you're serving a crowd.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice level to your taste by adding more or less curry powder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of meat for sosaties?

• Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or even lamb.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

• Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

3. Can I bake the sosaties instead of grilling them?

• Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

4. What can I serve with Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties?

• Serve with rice, salad, grilled vegetables, or flatbread.

5. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

• Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

Conclusion

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties are a flavorful and visually appealing dish that's perfect for any occasion. With a rich marinade featuring curry spices and the sweetness of apricots, these skewers are sure to impress your family and friends. Follow the steps in this guide to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your culinary journey into the vibrant flavors of South Africa!

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