A Flavorful Journey into Island Cuisine

Sri Lankan chicken curry, known locally as kukul mas curry, is one of the most beloved dishes on the island of Sri Lanka. Rich with bold spices, fragrant aromas, and a depth of flavor that lingers on the palate, this curry exemplifies the vibrancy and complexity of Sri Lankan cuisine. More than just a dish, it tells a story of culture, history, and culinary tradition.

The Cooking Process

🐔 Sri Lankan Chicken Curry (Kukul Mas Curry) Recipe

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4–6
🌶️ Spice Level: Medium to Hot (adjustable)

🧂 Ingredients

For the marinade:

• 750g (1.5 lb.) bone-in chicken pieces

• 2 tbsp Black Paper powder (adjustable)

• 1½ tsp salt

• 2 tbsp Tamarind Juice

For the curry:

• 2–3 tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)

• 1 large onion, finely sliced

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced

• 2 sprigs curry leaves

• 1 cinnamon stick (2-inch)

• 2 cardamom pods, crushed

• 2 cloves

• Lemon Grass (3-4 inch)
• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1½ tsp roasted curry powder

• 1½ cups water

• Pandan leaves (2-inch)

• 1 1/2 tsp Chili powder

• Salt to taste

🍛 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix chicken with salt, Black paper powder, and Tamarind juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate overnight for better flavor).

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft and golden. Add garlic, ginger, curry leaves, and Pandan Leaves. Cook for another 2 minutes. Then stir in cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Add chili powder and wait 2 minute until it release the fragrance.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add marinated chicken to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Simmer the Curry
Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Serve
Let the curry rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it with rice, roti, or string hoppers.

A Dish Worth Celebrating

Whether it’s your first taste or a nostalgic return, Sri Lankan chicken curry delivers warmth, complexity, and joy in every bite. It embodies the soul of island cooking—unpretentious yet full of character.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or celebratory meals, this curry is more than sustenance—it’s a taste of Sri Lankan identity.

Try It Yourself

Gather the spices, embrace the process, and let your kitchen be filled with the irresistible aroma of authentic kukul mas curry. Once you try it, it just might become your go-to comfort dish.

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