Curry goat is a traditional dish that is beloved in many Caribbean countries, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana. It is a flavorful and spicy dish that is made by slow-cooking goat meat with a variety of vegetables and spices, including curry powder. In this blog, we will explore the history of curry goat, its nutritional benefits, and provide a simple recipe for you to try at home.

History of Curry Goat

Curry goat has its roots in Indian cuisine, specifically the traditional Indian dish of goat curry. During the period of Indian indentured laborers in the Caribbean in the 19th century, Indian cuisine and cooking techniques were brought to the region. Over time, the dish evolved and was adapted to include local ingredients and flavors.

Today, curry goat is considered a quintessential dish of Caribbean cuisine and is a staple at many celebrations and events, including weddings, funerals, and holiday gatherings.

Nutritional Benefits of Curry Goat

Goat meat is a lean source of protein that is high in essential vitamins and minerals. It is also lower in fat and calories than beef, making it a healthy choice for those looking to reduce their intake of red meat.

Curry powder, a key ingredient in curry goat, is a blend of spices that has many health benefits. It contains turmeric, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, as well as cumin, coriander, and chili powder, which all have antioxidant properties.

Additionally, the vegetables used in curry goat, such as onions, garlic, and peppers, are all nutrient-dense and provide a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Recipe for Curry Goat

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs goat meat, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups water

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the goat meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the goat meat from the pot and set aside.
  4. Add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot and stir to combine.
  6. Add the goat meat back to the pot and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
  7. Add the water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the goat meat is tender and falls off the bone.
  9. Serve hot with a side of rice, beans, or vegetables.

Variations:

  • You can add other vegetables to the curry, such as carrots or potatoes.
  • For a spicier version, you can add Scotch bonnet peppers or hot sauce to the curry.
  • Curry goat can also be cooked in a slow cooker or pressure cooker for convenience.

In conclusion, curry goat is a flavorful and nutritious dish that has a rich history in Caribbean cuisine. Its unique blend of spices and tender goat meat make it a favorite among many, and its nutritional benefits make it a healthy choice as well. If you haven’t tried curry goat before, we highly recommend giving it a try. And with this simple recipe, you can easily