Curried Chops Recipe

Curried Chops Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
Curried chops is a delicious and flavorful dish that has its origins in Indian cuisine. The use of curry powder in cooking can be traced back to the British colonial rule in India during the 18th and 19th centuries. The British, having acquired a taste for spicy and aromatic Indian dishes, brought back various recipes and spices including curry powder. This led to the incorporation of curry powder into traditional British dishes, giving birth to unique fusion recipes like curried chops.

Curry powder itself is a blend of various spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, and chili, among others. The combination of these spices creates a complex and fragrant flavor that is synonymous with curry dishes.

Now, let's get started with the recipe:

Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. Chops
- 1/2 oz. Curry Powder
- 1 oz. Butter
- Lemon Juice
- 1/4 lb. Rice
- 1/2 pint Gravy or Water
- 1/2 oz. Flour
- 1 Apple
- 1 Onion
- Salt

Total Cost: 9d (Nine pence)

Time: Three Hours

Instructions:
1. Begin by trimming some of the fat away from the chops.
2. In a stewpan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chops to the pan and quickly brown them on both sides. Once browned, remove the chops from the pan and set them aside.
4. Chop up the apple and onion finely.
5. Add the apple and onion to the same pan and fry them in the remaining butter until they are softened and lightly browned.
6. Sprinkle the curry powder and flour over the cooked apple and onion mixture. Stir well to coat the ingredients evenly.
7. Gradually pour in the gravy or water and stir until it comes to a boil, combining all the ingredients together.
8. Return the browned chops to the pan, ensuring they are completely submerged in the curry mixture.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil again, cover the stewpan, and reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
10. Allow the curried chops to simmer gently for three hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender and juicy.
11. Once the cooking time is up, carefully transfer the curried chops to a serving dish.
12. Place the stewpan back on the heat and bring the gravy to a boil, stirring occasionally. If the gravy is not thick enough, simmer it rapidly (without the lid) for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
13. Season the curry with salt to taste and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning.
14. Pour the hot gravy over the curried chops, ensuring they are evenly coated.
15. In a separate pot, boil the rice using the directions provided elsewhere or as per your preference.
16. Rinse a small mold or cup in cold water and press the cooked rice into it. Then, gently turn it out onto a separate dish, creating a neat molded portion.
17. Serve the curried chops and the molded rice dish together, allowing guests to enjoy the flavorful combination.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed the flavors and spices of curried chops, you might enjoy trying other dishes with similar profiles. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Chicken Curry: Substitute the chops with chicken pieces for a milder take on the curry. Follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking time accordingly based on the type and size of the chicken pieces used.

2. Lamb Curry: For a more robust and flavorful curry, use lamb chops or pieces instead of regular chops. Lamb curry is a popular dish in many cuisines and offers a distinct taste and texture.

3. Vegetable Curry: For a vegetarian or vegan option, skip the meat altogether and replace it with a variety of colorful vegetables. You can include cauliflower, potatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and peas for a delicious and healthy vegetable curry.

Remember, curries are highly versatile dishes, and you can customize them to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Experiment with different spices, meats, or vegetables to create your own unique curry recipes. Enjoy the bold flavors and aromas that make curries so beloved around the world. Bon appétit!