Authentic Caribbean Curry Goat Recipe and Tips

Curry goat is a popular Caribbean dish that is full of delicious and complex flavours. Originating in India, curry goat has become a staple in Caribbean cuisine, especially in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago. This authentic Caribbean curry goat recipe will provide you with tips on how to make this iconic dish properly.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs goat meat, cut into bite-size pieces
• 3 tbsp curry powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp thyme
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1⁄2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 scallion, chopped

Tips for Preparing Goat Meat

• Choose young goat meat for tenderness - look for pieces from the leg. Older goats can be tough and gamey.
• Wash and pat dry the meat before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better.
• Cut the meat into bite-size pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly. Cubes of around 1-2 inches are ideal.
• Marinate the goat for 1-2 hours to tenderize and infuse flavour. A marinade of citrus, vinegar, yoghurt or wine works well.
• Remove any membranes or silverskin for a better texture.
• Browning the meat first will enhance flavour - make sure the pan and oil are very hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Marinate the Goat Meat

• In a large bowl, combine the goat meat, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, thyme, garlic, onion, scotch bonnet pepper, salt and black pepper.
• Mix well to coat the meat evenly in the spices.
• Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to marinate.

Brown the Meat

• Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Working in batches if needed, add the goat meat and brown for 2-3 minutes on each side.
• Transfer the browned meat to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

• Add the onion to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until starting to soften.
• Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Simmer the Curry

• Pour in the beef stock and add the browned goat meat along with any juices from the plate.
• Add the potato, carrot and thyme sprigs.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, uncovered.

Finish and Serve

• The curry is done when the goat meat is very tender.
• Remove the thyme sprigs.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Garnish with chopped scallion.
• Serve over rice with roti, fried plantains or dumplings. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Curry Goat

Follow these tips for authentic, flavorful Caribbean-style curry goat every time:

Use the Right Cut of Goat Meat

• Choose a young goat for tenderness. The leg is the most tender cut.
• Older goats can have a strong flavour - use marinades and spices to mellow it.

Marinate Properly

• Marinating tenderizes the meat and infuses flavour.
• Use acidic ingredients like lime juice or vinegar. Yoghurt also helps tenderize.
• Let marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight ideally.

Brown the Meat Well

• Browning adds a depth of flavour and nice colour.
• Make sure the pan and oil are very hot before adding goat.
• Brown the meat in batches for even cooking. Don't crowd the pan.

Simmer Slowly

• Long, slow simmering is key for tender meat. Cook for 1-2 hours.
• Keep the pot partially covered and watch liquid levels. Add more as needed.

Use the Right Spices

• Curry powder, cumin and turmeric provide the classic curry goat flavour base.
• Add other aromatics like garlic, onions, and thyme. peppers and scallions.
• Adjust spice amounts to your taste - add more curry powder and peppers for extra heat.

Tips for Serving Curry Goat

Curry goat is versatile and pairs well with many sides and flavours. Here are some serving tips:

• Serve over white rice to soak up the savoury sauce. Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice is perfect.
• Fried plantains are a classic pairing - the sweetness balances the heat. Simply fry sliced plantains in oil until golden brown.
• Roti flatbread can be used to scoop up the curry. Look for it fresh or frozen at Caribbean markets. Warm it before serving.
• Dumplings made from flour or cornmeal also pair nicely. They can be steamed or pan-fried.
• Additional sides could include beans, coleslaw, mango chutney or tossed salad.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions to add colour and freshness. Lime wedges also brighten up the flavours.
• Adjust the heat level by adding hot sauce or pepper vinegar for those who like it spicy.
• Leftovers hold up well for a few days in the fridge and freeze perfectly for longer-term storage. The flavours improve with time.

With the right preparation, spices and sides, you can enjoy the full flavours of the Caribbean with this authentic curry goat recipe. Adjust it to your taste and make it your own. Share this dish that brings people together across the islands and beyond.