Durban Dynamite

The Durban Dynamite is a sensational South African dish that hails from the coastal city of Durban, known for its vibrant culinary scene. This spicy, flavorful curry reflects the diverse cultural influences in Durban's history, with Indian immigrants playing a significant role in its development. Durban is famous for its curries, and the Durban Dynamite brings all the explosive flavors of the region into one dish, distinguished by its fiery spices and aromatic ingredients. Its popularity has grown not only locally but also internationally, as it captures the essence of Durban's rich gastronomic heritage.

Ingredients

• Chicken - 1 kg, cut into pieces
• Onions - 2 large, finely chopped
• Tomatoes - 3 large, pureed
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, grated
• Curry Powder - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin Seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric - 1 teaspoon
• Coriander Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Chili Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
• Coconut Milk - 1 cup
• Salt - to taste
• Cilantro - for garnish
• Rice - to serve

Preparation

1. Begin by marinating the chicken with turmeric and salt. Set aside for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and allow them to splutter, releasing their aroma.
3. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become golden brown.
4. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking until the raw smell fades away.
5. Stir in the curry powder, coriander powder, and chili powder. Cook for a couple of minutes, letting the spices bloom.
6. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture, forming a thick paste.
7. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the spice mixture.
8. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is tender. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.

Complete Cooking Process

Maintaining a steady simmer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the vibrant flavors from the spices and coconut milk. It's crucial to check the seasoning; add more salt if needed, to balance the spices. Towards the end of the cooking process, remove the lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.

How to Enjoy

Serve the Durban Dynamite hot over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. To experience the dish fully, accompany it with traditional South African sides like sambals or poppadums to add texture and a fun crunch. The explosion of flavors is best enjoyed with family and friends, making it an ideal centerpiece for a heartwarming meal. Relish each bite while discussing the fascinating culinary history behind this extraordinary dish.