Country Captain

Country Captain

Country Captain is a popular dish in Southern cuisine, particularly in the United States. It is a flavorful and aromatic chicken dish that has its roots in Indian and British cuisine. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, preparation, and variations of Country Captain.

History

The origins of Country Captain can be traced back to the British colonial era in India. It is believed that British officers stationed in India during the 18th and 19th centuries developed a taste for the local cuisine. They particularly enjoyed a dish called "Kozhi Kari" which means chicken curry in Tamil, a language spoken in the southern part of India.

When these British officers returned to their homeland, they brought back the recipe for Kozhi Kari. Over time, the dish evolved and adapted to the local ingredients and preferences in the Southern United States. It became known as Country Captain, a name that reflects the influence of the British officers who held the rank of "Captain."

Ingredients

The key ingredients in Country Captain include chicken, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, curry powder, and various spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Some recipes also call for raisins, almonds, and green peas to add sweetness and texture to the dish.

Preparation

To prepare Country Captain, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices for at least an hour. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil and sauté onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes until they are soft and fragrant. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is browned on all sides.

Next, add curry powder and other spices to the skillet and stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables. Pour in enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Finally, garnish the Country Captain with fresh cilantro and serve it over steamed rice or with naan bread for a complete meal.

Variations

Country Captain has many regional variations and adaptations. In some versions, additional vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or okra are added to the dish. Some recipes also include coconut milk or cream to create a richer and creamier sauce.

In the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, Country Captain is often served with a side of pilau rice, a fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and sometimes mixed with vegetables or meat.

See Also

• Indian Cuisine
• British Cuisine
• Southern Cuisine