Introduction

Indulge in a lighter version of pork curry that is both rich and aromatic, featuring coconut milk and cashews for added texture and flavor. This dish is an excellent choice for those seeking a comforting meal with a tropical twist. Easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors, this pork curry will surely satisfy your cravings while keeping it healthy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pork tenderloin – 500g
Coconut milk – 400ml
Cashews – 100g
Onion – 1 large, diced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 piece (about 2 cm), grated
Curry powder – 2 tablespoons
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh cilantro – for garnish

Prep Time

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cut the pork into cubes. Chop the onion, garlic, and ginger finely. Set aside the cashews for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it is translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Pork

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the pork cubes to the pan. Cook the pork until it is browned on all sides, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add Spices and Coconut Milk

Sprinkle in the curry powder and continue to stir for a couple of minutes to toast the spices. Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Add Cashews

Five minutes before the cooking time is up, add the cashews to the curry. Stir to mix and allow them to warm through.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the curry and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you desire more heat, consider adding chili flakes or fresh chili according to your preference.

Step 8: Serve

Once the curry is cooked, remove it from heat and serve it hot. Pair it with rice or flatbreads for a complete meal.

Notes

Note 1: Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute pork with chicken or tofu for different variations of this dish.

Note 2: Storage

Leftover curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.

Note 3: Adjusting Consistency

If the curry is too thick, you can add a little water or additional coconut milk until the desired consistency is reached.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

This curry pairs well with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option.

Note 5: Spiciness Level

Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of curry powder or adding fresh chilies based on your taste preference.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick cooking method that involves cooking food over medium-high heat in a small amount of oil. This technique enhances flavors by browning the ingredients, particularly the meat and onions in a curry.

Simmering

Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique is essential for allowing the flavors of the curry to meld while the pork becomes tender.

Infusing flavors

Infusing is the process of drawing out flavors from ingredients such as spices, herbs, and aromatics into the cooking liquid. This is crucial in curry preparation for achieving a rich, aromatic dish.

Toasting

Toasting nuts, such as cashews, enhances their flavor and crunch. This technique can be done by dry-roasting the nuts in a pan before adding them to the dish.

Reducing

Reducing involves simmering a liquid to evaporate some of the water content, which concentrates the flavors. This technique can be applied when adjusting the consistency of the curry sauce.

FAQ

Can I substitute coconut milk for another type of milk?

Yes, you can use alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, but they will alter the flavor and creaminess of the curry.

What type of pork is best for curry?

Pork shoulder or tenderloin is ideal due to its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors well during cooking.

How can I make the curry spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make this curry vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the pork with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How long does the curry last in the fridge?

The curry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Conclusion

The light pork curry with coconut milk and cashews offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a wholesome dish that highlights the creaminess of coconut milk balanced by the nuttiness of cashews. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for customization to suit individual tastes, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Coconut Curry

Swap the pork for an array of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. The coconut milk will enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding richness to the dish.

Chicken Curry with Mango

Use chicken breast instead of pork and add diced mango for a sweet twist. The mango imparts a fruity acidity that complements the curry spices beautifully.

Fish Curry with Cilantro

Replace pork with white fish fillets, and finish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a refreshing flavor. This variation is light yet satisfying, perfect for a summer meal.

Quinoa Salad with Curry Dressing

Create a nourishing salad using quinoa and your choice of vegetables, and dress it with a mixture of coconut milk and curry powder for a creamy, flavorful finish.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Curry Rice

Prepare a mixture of rice cooked in coconut milk with curry spices and fill bell peppers with this mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender for a colorful and hearty dish.