If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up your leftover turkey, look no further than this Hairy Bikers turkey curry recipe. This is a simple and easy dish that will satisfy your cravings for a spicy and creamy curry, without breaking the bank or the calorie count. You can make this curry with any kind of cooked turkey, whether it’s roasted, smoked, or fried. The Hairy Bikers are known for their hearty and wholesome recipes that are full of flavor and fun. They have been cooking together for over 20 years, and have published several bestselling cookbooks and TV shows.
In this recipe, they show you how to make a turkey curry that is inspired by Indian cuisine, but with a twist of coconut milk and potatoes. This curry is rich and satisfying, but also light and refreshing. It’s perfect for a cozy winter meal or a summer picnic. You can serve it with rice, naan bread, or chapatis, and some fresh salad or yogurt on the side. Here’s how to make this Hairy Bikers turkey curry recipe in a few easy steps.
What is Hairy Bikers Turkey Curry?
Hairy Bikers turkey curry is a delicious dish that uses leftover cooked turkey in a spicy and creamy coconut sauce. It’s inspired by Indian cuisine but with a twist of potatoes and thyme. It’s a simple and easy recipe that you can make in less than an hour, with ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Whether you’re looking to transform post-feast remnants or simply crave a warm, comforting meal, this curry is an excellent choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s:
- Tasty: The turkey is crispy and tender, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the potatoes are soft and creamy. The curry paste adds a nice kick of spice, while the coconut milk balances it out with a touch of sweetness.
- Easy: You don’t need any special equipment or skills to make this recipe. You just need a large frying pan, a cutting board, a knife, and a measuring cup. You can use any kind of curry paste that you like and any kind of cooked turkey that you have on hand.
- Budget-friendly: This recipe is very economical, as it uses leftover turkey that you might otherwise throw away. You can also use chicken instead of turkey if you want to save even more money. The other ingredients are also cheap and easy to find in any supermarket.
- Healthy: This recipe is low in calories and fat, but high in protein and fiber. It’s also gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for people with dietary restrictions or allergies. It’s a filling and satisfying dish that will keep you full for hours.
Hairy Bikers Turkey Ingredients
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- 500g of cooked turkey, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
- A few sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp of curry paste (you can use any kind you like, such as korma, tikka masala, or madras)
- 400ml of coconut milk
- 300ml of chicken stock
- 500g of new potatoes, halved or quartered
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Turkey
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the turkey pieces, one crushed garlic clove, and some thyme leaves. Fry for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the turkey is golden and crisp. Transfer the turkey to a plate and discard the garlic and thyme.
- In the same pan, add the onion and cook for about 15 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden. Add the curry paste and the remaining garlic clove and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Add the coconut milk and the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Add the potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
- Return the turkey to the pan and stir well to coat with the sauce. Simmer for another 10 minutes, until heated through.
- Sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves over the curry and serve hot with your choice of accompaniments.
What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Turkey Curry?
Hairy Bikers Turkey Curry pairs well with a variety of accompaniments.
Consider the following when serving:
- Rice: A staple for most curry dishes, rice absorbs the curry’s flavors while adding carbohydrates. Options range from white, brown, and basmati, to jasmine rice. Enhance its taste by adding spices like turmeric, cumin, cardamom, or herbs like cilantro.
- Naan Bread: This soft and fluffy Indian flatbread is ideal for scooping up curry. While store-bought versions are convenient, homemade naan, made using flour, yeast, water, oil, salt, and sugar, brings an authentic touch.
- Chapatis: A crispier and thinner alternative to naan, chapatis are made from whole wheat flour. Cook them on a hot griddle or skillet until they puff up and brown, and use them for dipping into the curry.
- Salad: Add freshness and crunch to your meal with a side salad. Incorporate greens like lettuce, spinach, or arugula and toss in vegetables or fruits like tomatoes, cucumbers, apples, or grapes. Finish with a dressing of your choice.
- Yogurt: For a cooling and creamy contrast, serve your curry with yogurt. Plain, mango or coconut-flavored yogurts work best. Add a sprinkle of mint or cilantro for added freshness.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Turkey Curry
Here are some pro tips to make sure your turkey curry turns out perfect every time:
- Fry the turkey well: To get the best texture and flavor from your turkey pieces, make sure you fry them well until they are golden and crisp on all sides. This will also help them retain their shape and moisture when you add them back to the sauce later.
- Cook the onion slowly: To get the best flavor from your onion, cook it slowly over medium-low heat until it is soft and caramelized. This will bring out its natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step or skip it altogether.
- Use good quality curry paste: The curry paste is the main source of spice and flavor in this dish, so make sure you use a good quality one that suits your taste buds. You can use any kind of curry paste that you like, such as korma (mild), tikka masala (medium), or madras (hot). You can also make your own curry paste at home with some garlic, ginger, chili peppers, spices (such as cumin, coriander
Variations of Hairy Bikers Turkey Curry
This curry recipe is flexible, allowing for numerous adaptations based on personal preference or available ingredients. Here are some ideas to inspire creativity:
- Nuts: Introduce a delightful crunch and additional protein with nuts. Cashews, almonds, or pistachios can be toasted and sprinkled on top or added raw to the curry sauce.
- Fruit: Fruits like raisins, apricots, or mango can infuse sweetness and vibrancy. Incorporate them into the sauce or present them as a side garnish.
- Alternative Proteins: While turkey is the primary ingredient, other meats like chicken, pork, or beef can be used. For a vegetarian twist, consider tofu or paneer. Ensure the meat or alternative is cut into bite-sized portions and properly fried.
- Potato Variations: The curry can feature various potatoes, from sweet potatoes to yams or even russets. Alternatively, other root vegetables like carrots or turnips can be added, ensuring they are cut uniformly and cooked until tender.
How do I store Hairy Bikers, Turkey Curry?
To ensure the curry’s freshness and maintain its taste:
- Refrigeration: After letting the curry cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It remains good for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the curry can be frozen for up to 3 months. Before placing it in the freezer, make sure to label the container with both the dish’s name and the date. To minimize the risk of freezer burn, wrap the airtight container with either plastic wrap or foil.
How do I reheat Hairy Bikers, Turkey Curry?
Whether you prefer using a microwave or stovetop, here’s how to revive the flavors of your stored curry:
Microwave Method:
- Pour the curry into a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover with a microwave-friendly lid or plastic wrap.
- Heat on high for approximately 5 minutes, pausing midway to stir. Continue until the curry is thoroughly hot.
Stovetop Method:
- Transfer the curry to a large saucepan.
- Place on medium-high heat until it begins to boil.
- Lower the heat, letting it simmer for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If you notice the sauce has thickened excessively, add a bit of water or stock to reach your desired consistency.
Other Hairy Bikers Recipes to Try:
FAQs
What kind of curry paste should I use for this Hairy Bikers turkey curry recipe?
You can use any kind of curry paste that you like for this recipe, depending on your preference and spice tolerance. The Hairy Bikers suggest using korma, tikka masala, or madras curry paste, which are all widely available in supermarkets or online. You can also make your own curry paste at home with some garlic, ginger, chili peppers, spices (such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika), and tomato paste.
Can I freeze this Hairy Bikers turkey curry recipe?
Yes, you can freeze this turkey curry for up to 3 months in an airtight container. However, you should only freeze it if you are using fresh or uncooked turkey for this recipe. If you are using leftover roast turkey, remember that poultry should only be reheated once, so any leftover curry will not be suitable for freezing. To reheat the frozen curry, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave or heat it on the stovetop until hot and bubbly.
How can I make this Hairy Bikers turkey curry recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Swap the turkey for tofu, chickpeas, or paneer cheese. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and coconut yogurt instead of dairy yogurt. Add more veggies like carrots, peas, cauliflower, or spinach. The creamy coconut milk makes it satisfyingly rich and hearty, even without the turkey.