Introduction to Chicken Vindaloo

Vindaloo is an Indian dish of Portuguese influence that typically is associated with the state of Goa on India’s southwestern coast, but the curry is popular around the world. Made with pork, lamb or chicken, it’s notable for its vinegary tang, a generous dose of garlic and the spiciness of dried chilies.

By CHRISTOPHER KIMBALL, Associated Press

History and Variations of Vindaloo

In this recipe from our cookbook “Milk Street 365: The All-Purpose Cookbook for Every Day of the Year,” we puree a host of spices in a blender, along with fresh garlic and ginger, bracing white vinegar and a bit of brown sugar. The result is a thick paste that is sweetly aromatic. After the chicken soaks for a bit, both meat and marinade go into the skillet to cook and reduce.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

The Kashmiri chili powder used in India is vibrantly colored with moderate heat; we found a mixture of sweet paprika and cayenne to be a good substitute. If you purchase Kashmiri chili powder, substitute 4 teaspoons for the paprika and cayenne.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Don’t worry if the chicken sticks to the pot immediately after it is added. Allow it to cook undisturbed and it eventually will release with ease. And don’t be afraid to allow the chicken and puree to brown as they cook. This brings out the flavors in the spices and tames the pungency of the aromatics, yielding a sauce that tastes full and round. Sprinkle the finished dish with sliced chilies and cilantro and serve with basmati rice.

Recipe Details

Start to finish: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
This image released by Milk Street shows a recipe for chicken vindaloo. (Milk Street via AP)

Ingredients:

¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons white vinegar, divided
12 medium garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
4 whole cloves or ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
2½ teaspoons ground turmeric
2 teaspoons cumin seeds
½ to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons neutral oil
Fresno or jalapeño chilies, stemmed and sliced into thin rings, to serve
Fresh cilantro leaves, to serve

Directions:

1. In a blender, combine ¼ cup vinegar, garlic, ginger, paprika, sugar, cloves, turmeric, cumin, cayenne, cinnamon, ¾ teaspoon salt, 1¼ teaspoons pepper and 3 tablespoons water. Puree until smooth, scraping the blender as needed. Pour into a medium bowl, add the chicken and toss to coat. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes.
2. In a large Dutch oven over medium, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the chicken and marinade in an even layer. Cook without stirring until the marinade has browned and the chicken releases easily from the pot, 5 to 9 minutes. Stir, then add ⅓ cup water and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until a skewer inserted into the chicken meets no resistance, 35 to 45 minutes.
3. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, increase to medium and cook, stirring often, until the sauce is thick enough that a spoon drawn through leaves a trail, about 8 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with sliced chilies and cilantro.

Conclusion

Chicken Vindaloo is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. With its combination of vinegar, garlic, ginger, and spices, it’s a great option for those looking to try something new and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to please.

FAQs

Q: What is the origin of Chicken Vindaloo?
A: Chicken Vindaloo is an Indian dish of Portuguese influence that originated in the state of Goa on India’s southwestern coast.
Q: Can I substitute Kashmiri chili powder with something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute Kashmiri chili powder with a mixture of sweet paprika and cayenne pepper.
Q: How long does it take to cook Chicken Vindaloo?
A: It takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to cook Chicken Vindaloo.
Q: What should I serve with Chicken Vindaloo?
A: Chicken Vindaloo is typically served with basmati rice and garnished with sliced chilies and cilantro.
EDITOR’S NOTE: For more recipes, go to Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street at 177milkstreet.com/ap
Originally Published: March 25, 2025 at 2:20 PM EDT