Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Recipe

Sosaties, a popular South African dish, offer a delicious blend of marinated meat and dried fruit, skewered and grilled to perfection. This Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties recipe combines tender chicken with the sweet and tangy flavor of apricots, all enhanced by a fragrant curry marinade. Perfect for a BBQ or a flavorful meal any time, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on for a step-by-step guide to making this delectable dish.

What are Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties?

Sosaties are traditional South African kebabs made with marinated meat and dried fruit, usually cooked on a grill. The name "sosatie" is derived from the Afrikaans words "sate" (skewer) and "saus" (spicy sauce). In this recipe, we use chicken, apricots, and a curry marinade to create a flavorful and aromatic dish that's perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking.

Ingredients List for Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sosaties:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup dried apricots
• 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 large bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
• 12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Meat: Substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or pork for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian: Use firm tofu or paneer instead of chicken.
• Spice Level: Adjust the curry powder amount to your preferred heat level or use a mild curry powder for less spice.
• Additional Vegetables: Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skewers for more variety.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat the Grill:
   • If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If using an indoor grill or grill pan, preheat over medium-high heat.
4. Assemble the Sosaties:
   • Thread the marinated chicken, dried apricots, onion chunks, and bell pepper chunks onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating between each ingredient.
5. Grill the Sosaties:
   • Place the sosaties on the preheated grill. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the sosaties from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

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

Cooking sosaties involves marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor, then grilling it to perfection. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Ensure Proper Marination: Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. Overnight marination yields the best results.
2. Soak the Skewers: Soaking the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
3. Monitor the Grill Temperature: Keeping the grill at medium-high heat ensures that the sosaties cook evenly without burning.
4. Turn Frequently: Turning the skewers frequently helps to cook the meat evenly and prevents charring on one side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marinade: Marinating is crucial for tender and flavorful chicken.
2. Overcrowding the Skewers: Leave some space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
3. High Heat: Cooking over too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve Hot: Sosaties are best served hot off the grill.
• Accompaniments: Pair with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. Chutney or raita also complement the flavors well.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

How to Serve Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

• As an Appetizer: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer with dipping sauces.
• Main Course: Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• At a BBQ: Include as part of a BBQ spread with other grilled meats and vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

• Platter: Arrange the sosaties on a large platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
• Individual Plates: Serve each skewer individually on small plates with a side of chutney.
• Skewer Stand: Use a skewer stand for an impressive presentation at parties.

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Recipe Tips

• Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of the marinade.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the grill to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried? A: Yes, fresh apricots can be used, but they may be more delicate on the grill. Consider partially cooking them beforehand.

Q: How can I make the dish less spicy? A: Use a mild curry powder and reduce the amount of ground spices.

Q: Can I bake the sosaties instead of grilling? A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Q: What other fruits can I use? A: Dried peaches or mangoes can be a good alternative to apricots.

Conclusion

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings together the best of South African cuisine. With their aromatic curry marinade and the sweet-tangy flavor of apricots, these skewers are perfect for any occasion. Follow this comprehensive guide to create your own delicious sosaties, and enjoy a taste of South Africa right in your own home. Happy grilling!

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