Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry Recipe

Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry is a wonderfully aromatic dish that serves as a perfect post-Christmas or holiday meal, especially when you have leftover turkey to utilize. This recipe, which has become a classic in many British kitchens, transforms the leftover turkey into a vibrant and flavorful curry.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and ease of preparation, while still providing a rich, satisfying flavor. Delia Smith, a celebrated British cook, developed this recipe to take advantage of leftover turkey meat, providing a delicious alternative to the usual cold turkey sandwiches or reheated roasts.

The curry itself is mildly spiced, making it suitable for a wide range of palates, and it features a creamy, aromatic sauce enriched by coconut milk and curry powder. Whether you’re cooking it for a family gathering or just a cozy meal for yourself, Delia’s Turkey Curry is guaranteed to please!.

Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Leftover turkey meat – about 400g to 500g, shredded or diced
• Vegetable oil – for frying
• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
• Curry powder – 1-2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
• Ground turmeric – 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
• Coconut milk – 400ml can (full-fat or light, depending on your preference)
• Chicken or vegetable stock – 200ml
• Ground almonds – 2 tablespoons (for thickness and creaminess)
• Raisins or sultanas – 2 tablespoons (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• Fresh coriander – a handful, chopped for garnish
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Lemon juice – from half a lemon (for a slight tangy balance)
• Cooked rice – to serve, for example, basmati rice

Equipment Needed

To make Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry, gather the following kitchen equipment:

• Large frying pan or sauté pan – to cook the curry
• Saucepan – for heating the stock and coconut milk if needed
• Chopping board and knife – for prepping the vegetables and herbs
• Grater – for fresh ginger
• Wooden spoon – for stirring the curry while cooking
• Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure the correct amounts of spices and liquids
• Serving dishes – for serving the curry and rice

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Start by finely chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger. Shred or dice your leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using raisins or sultanas, measure them out.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it softens and turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

3. Spice It Up:
   Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander. Let the spices toast for a minute in the pan, releasing their flavors.

4. Add the Coconut Milk and Stock:
   Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock. Stir everything together, scraping up any spices that may have stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 10 minutes, so the flavors can meld together.

5. Add the Turkey and Almonds:
   Add the shredded or diced turkey to the pan. Stir in the ground almonds, which will help thicken the sauce and add a creamy texture. If you like a touch of sweetness, add the raisins or sultanas now.

6. Simmer and Season:
   Let the curry simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the turkey to heat through and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for balance.

7. Serve:
   Serve the curry hot, garnished with fresh coriander. It’s best enjoyed with steamed basmati rice, but you can also serve it with naan bread for an even heartier meal.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Spices: Adjust the amount of curry powder depending on how mild or spicy you prefer the dish. If you like it spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh chopped chilies to the curry.
• Substitute for Coconut Milk: If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, you can substitute it with double cream for a richer flavor or use evaporated milk for a lighter version.
• Use Fresh Turkey: While this recipe is ideal for leftover turkey, you can also use fresh turkey breast if you don’t have leftovers. Just ensure it’s cooked through before adding it to the sauce.
• Balance the Flavors: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of sugar can balance the curry’s flavors, especially if the coconut milk makes it too rich or the curry a little too spicy.
• Rice: For extra flavor, cook the rice with a bay leaf, cinnamon stick, or a few cardamom pods to enhance the overall dish.

Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry is a delightful, comforting recipe that transforms leftover turkey into something extraordinary. It’s easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, and its gentle spice profile makes it approachable for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking a way to use up holiday leftovers or simply crave a flavorful curry, this recipe delivers a satisfying and rich meal. With the right blend of spices, coconut milk, and a touch of sweetness from the raisins, it’s a dish that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. So next time you have leftover turkey, give Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry a try-it’s a simple yet extraordinary way to make the most of your festive feasts!.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry Recipe

Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry recipe is a delightful way to repurpose leftover turkey from a holiday feast into a flavorful and comforting dish. However, while the original recipe is perfect as it is, there are many ways to personalize and elevate it with a few simple twists that can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

1. Add Extra Heat: If you love a bit of spice, you can easily tweak the recipe by adding more chili or incorporating a variety of hot peppers. Try using green chilies for a milder heat or red bird’s eye chilies for a fiery kick. Another option is to include some chili paste or hot curry powder.
2. Incorporate Vegetables: To make your turkey curry even more nutritious, you can add a variety of vegetables. Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips work well in the curry, offering a touch of sweetness that complements the richness of the turkey. You could also add spinach, peas, or bell peppers to introduce vibrant colors and extra texture.
3. Use Coconut Milk: If you’re looking to make the curry a bit more indulgent and creamy, swap out the regular stock for coconut milk. This will add a silky richness to the curry and infuse it with a subtle tropical flavor that works beautifully with the spices.
4. Switch Up the Spice Blend: While Delia’s recipe calls for a standard curry powder, you can customize the spice profile to your liking. Consider making your own blend by mixing ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom. Alternatively, for a more adventurous twist, add garam masala or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a depth of flavor.
5. Add Dried Fruit: For an unexpected but delicious sweetness, you can add dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, or chopped dried apricots. These will balance the spices in the curry and add a wonderful burst of sweetness with every bite.
6. Make It Lighter: If you want a lighter version of Delia’s turkey curry, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream or coconut milk. The yogurt will still provide a creamy texture but without the richness, making it a perfect option for those watching their calorie intake.
7. Boost the Umami: For an additional umami boost, consider adding a small amount of fish sauce or soy sauce. These ingredients will deepen the flavors of the curry, especially if you’re using more mild or less flavorful turkey.

By simply changing a few ingredients, Delia Smith’s turkey curry can be transformed into a dish that feels completely new while still preserving the comfort and warmth of the original recipe.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from your turkey curry properly is essential to ensure that they remain safe to eat and maintain their delicious flavors. Here are some tips for storing your curry:

1. Cool the Curry Quickly: To avoid the growth of harmful bacteria, it’s important to cool the curry as quickly as possible. After cooking, allow the curry to cool down at room temperature for no longer than two hours. If you’re in a rush, you can place the curry in a shallow container, which will help it cool more rapidly.
2. Refrigerate Properly: Once the curry has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The turkey curry can typically be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to label the container with the date you made the curry so you can keep track of how long it’s been stored.
3. Freezing Leftovers: If you have more curry than you can eat within a few days, freezing is a great option. Let the curry cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. The curry can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the curry overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly before eating.
4. Reheat Safely: When reheating leftovers, it’s essential to heat the curry to a boiling point to ensure it’s safe to eat. You can reheat it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave. Make sure to stir it well to ensure an even temperature. If you’ve frozen the curry, it’s best to thaw it first for the most even reheating.
5. Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: For food safety reasons, it’s not recommended to reheat the same curry more than once. Reheating and cooling can increase the risk of bacterial growth, so only reheat the amount you plan to eat.

By following these storage and reheating guidelines, your leftover turkey curry will be as tasty and safe as when you first made it.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry?

When it comes to pairing side dishes with Delia Smith’s turkey curry, you’ll want to complement the rich, spiced flavors of the curry with something that balances the heat and enhances the overall meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Rice: The classic choice to accompany curry is rice. For a more authentic touch, go for basmati rice, which has a light, fluffy texture that soaks up the curry sauce beautifully. You can also try pilaf rice, which is cooked with spices, nuts, and dried fruit, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
2. Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is the perfect vehicle for scooping up your turkey curry. You can buy it pre-made, or for a special touch, try baking your own at home. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider garlic naan, cheese naan, or even a whole wheat naan for a different flavor profile.
3. Vegetable Sides: To balance the richness of the curry, serve some lighter, refreshing vegetable sides. A cool cucumber raita is ideal for cutting through the heat, while a simple salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon offers a refreshing contrast. You could also prepare roasted vegetables like cauliflower or eggplant to bring in some savory depth.
4. Chutneys and Pickles: Adding a few small bowls of chutney or pickles to the table can elevate your meal. Mango chutney adds sweetness, while a tangy lime pickle introduces a sharp, bold flavor. Both complement the spices in the curry wonderfully.
5. Lentils: For an added source of protein and fiber, consider serving your turkey curry with a side of lentils. A mild dal, which is a spiced lentil stew, pairs perfectly with curry. The subtle flavors of the lentils will enhance the dish without overpowering the main flavors.
6. Flatbreads: If you prefer something lighter than naan, opt for flatbreads like chapati or roti. These unleavened breads are thin and easy to tear into, perfect for scooping up the curry and soaking up the sauce.
7. Potato Dishes: Potatoes are always a winning side for curry. You could serve a classic aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry), or simple boiled potatoes seasoned with turmeric, cumin, and cilantro for a fragrant side dish.

By offering a variety of sides alongside your turkey curry, you create a well-rounded meal with a balance of flavors and textures that will delight everyone at the table.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s turkey curry recipe is a versatile and hearty dish that can be easily customized with simple twists to suit your tastes. Whether you want to add extra spice, introduce new vegetables, or switch up the curry base, this recipe is an excellent starting point for a variety of creative dishes.

By properly storing leftovers, you can make the most of your meal and enjoy it for days to come. Pairing the curry with flavorful sides like rice, naan, or chutneys elevates the experience and turns a humble leftover dish into a satisfying and memorable meal. With these simple adjustments and tips, Delia’s turkey curry will become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry?

To make Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry, you will need leftover turkey (about 500g), onion, garlic, ginger, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, tomatoes, coconut milk, chicken stock, vegetable oil, and fresh coriander for garnish. Optional ingredients include a bit of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry?

Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes the time needed for sautéing the vegetables and spices, simmering the curry sauce, and reheating the leftover turkey.

Can I Use Other Types Of Meat In Delia Smith’s Turkey Curry?

Yes, while Delia Smith’s original recipe uses leftover turkey, you can substitute turkey with other meats like chicken, lamb, or even a vegetarian option such as tofu or chickpeas. The spices and flavors in the curry sauce work well with various proteins.