Leaving home is difficult, especially when you’re leaving the food behind. But for South African expats craving a taste of home, there’s a culinary combination that can transport you back in time with just one bite—Durban Mutton Curry paired with soft, buttery South African Roti.
In this guide, we’ll explore the delicious intricacies of Durban Mutton Curry and how to make soft South African Roti—the perfect vehicles for scooping up that rich curry gravy. Whether you’re an expat looking to recreate a taste of home or simply a food enthusiast eager to try something new, this blog will provide you with everything you need to know.
The culinary gem of Durban: curry roti
Durban Mutton Curry is a staple in South African Indian cuisine, known for its fiery flavours and aromatic spices. Unlike other curries, it’s characterised by its thick, luscious gravy and a medley of spices that create a unique aroma. The secret lies in the use of homemade Durban masala, which infuses the meat with rich flavours during marination.
Durban’s Indian community has long celebrated this dish as a symbol of their heritage, with many families passing down their versions through generations.
Why pair it with South African roti?
While Durban Mutton Curry is a delight on its own, pairing it with soft, buttery South African Roti elevates the experience. The roti, with its flaky layers and buttery flavour, serves as the perfect accompaniment, soaking up every bit of the curry’s rich gravy. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a delightful celebration of flavours and textures that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients to get started
Durban mutton curry:
- 2 kg mutton pieces, bone-in or boneless based on your choice
- 2 medium onions and 3 medium tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Durban masala for marinating the meat, plus 3 tablespoons for the curry
- 1 teaspoon coriander and cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon chilli powder
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 sticks of cinnamon
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato purée
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- A handful of curry leaves
- A bunch of fresh coriander
Roti:
- 500ml (2 cups) of sifted cake flour
- 4 tablespoons of melted butter, plus extra for brushing the rotis
- 250ml (1 cup) of boiling water
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Crafting the perfect Durban mutton curry
Creating the perfect Durban mutton curry involves a careful balance of preparation and patience. Here are the steps to guide you:
For the curry:
- Begin by marinating the mutton in Durban masala. Ideally, marinate the meat for at least two hours, or even overnight for deeper infusion.
- In a heavy-based pan, sauté finely sliced onions until caramelised. Add ginger and garlic paste, followed by curry leaves.
- Add your blend of spices, ensuring they fry in the oil to release their full flavours.
- Add the marinated mutton, searing it to lock in the spices and juices.
- Once browned, incorporate grated tomatoes and tomato paste for a natural reddish hue
- Add water gradually, allowing the curry to thicken into a rich gravy before serving. Place a lid on the pot and let the curry cook on low heat. This gentle cooking method helps the mutton become tender while allowing the flavours to blend harmoniously.
For the roti
- While the curry simmers, it’s time to turn your attention to the roti.
- Start by sifting cake wheat flour into a bowl. Add melted butter and boiling water, mixing it into a sticky dough.
- Knead until you achieve a smooth, silky consistency.
- Flatten with your palms and roll out on a floured surface until it reaches the desired thickness. The goal is to create a dough that’s easy to handle and doesn’t stick to the rolling pin. Portion the dough and shape each piece into a smooth, round ball.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the rolled-out dough onto the pan, cooking until bubbles form. Flip it over and brush with butter, repeating until both sides are golden brown and flaky.
With the curry simmered to perfection and roti hot off the pan, it’s time to serve. Garnish your Durban Mutton Curry with fresh coriander and serve alongside the warm roti. This combination is sure to transport you back to the streets of Durban, where the aroma of spices fills the air.
Durban mutton curry: A flavorful delight
Creating the classic Durban mutton curry paired with roti is not just a culinary journey; it’s an opportunity to connect with your heritage and share it with others. For South African expats, this meal can be a source of nostalgia and pride, keeping the flavours of home alive no matter where life takes you. Savour the essence of South Africa in every bite of curry and roti, and delight in the joy of sharing this treasured experience with loved ones, near and far.
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