Food, stupid food. And a recipe.
I’ve never been one for counting calories. I find it difficult to associate myself with the gargantuan folks in the office who demand to know how many calories are in every bite of food they eat, while simultaneously putting down half a cake after lunch because “it’s what’s-her-name’s birthday”. Further, I’m willing to use any measure available to distance myself from the dreaded term “weight watchers”. As a self-proclaimed foodie, the denial of services inherent in dieting is absolutely unacceptable.
That said, I’ve spent the last week or so experimenting in portion control. Enter Chicken and Veg Curry.
Yes, I own this picture. And the sexy skillet therein.
This experiment was far too much deliciousness to abide my self-imposed portion size standards, and I inevitably ended up throwing out half of it, but man, this salacious lady was a good time all around. The end result combined the following list of ingredients:
- 2 pounds diced chicken
- 2 cups mixed veg
- salt and pepper to taste
- olive oil
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons cilantro
- 1/2 cup water
Most of these ingredients are basics, and should be in your spice rack. If not, do yourself a favor and take notes. Next time you’re braving your local supermarket, shell out the pennies for these goodies. It’s worth it for that rainy day alone.
Start with the chicken. Season it with salt and pepper, fry it up, dice it, set it aside.
In a medium hot pan, olive oil, onions, garlic. Saute until softened. Add all the seasonings except the cilantro. Add a splash of water and stir it up – the seasonings will dry out the onion mixture in a hurry. Add the yogurt – stir. Add the chicken, vegetables, and cilantro – toss. Add the rest of the water and stir it up to create that beautiful mass. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’re done. Serve it over rice.
As packed with flavor and devious excitement as this dish may be, the potent spices act as a natural hunger suppressant, meaning, less is more. And for God’s sake, if you really feel the need to celebrate “what’s her name’s” birthday, get her a card.
