A FAST AND SIMPLE MEAT CURRY

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My daughter, Layla, is a wonderful cook. She bakes her own bread, cooks dinner practically every night, and test her recipes until achieving perfection. For some unfathomable reason, she stresses and frets over making Indian food. This makes no sense, especially considering the fact that it is half her heritage.
On returning from India she purchased a good curry paste and curry powder, not knowing which was better. Then she attempted to prepare a curry with her usual fears and trepidations.
Layla, this is for you. It is fast and easy, and you need not panic anymore.
Both curry paste or powder can be used, and the quality is what counts. I use Bolts Curry Powder and Patel pastes, of which there are many different types. The key to a good curry is to take the time between each step, so that the vegetables can sweat, the spices shed their raw flavor, and the meats simmer on a low flame until soft and succulent. Take it nice and easy and be sure to BREATHE.
meat in marinade

RECIPE
Serves 4

1 lb. meat cubed, with or without bones*
2 tablespoons curry paste
2 tablespoons yogurt
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 onions, chopped
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
saute vegetables
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 green chilies, minced
ut1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped (optional)

Mix the meat with the paste and the yogurt, and let it marinate for 1-2 hours.

Heat the oil and saute the onions for 10 minutes, on a low flame.
Grind the ginger and garlic to a paste-like consistency, and add to the onions along with the chilies. Saute for 2 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and mix thoroughly, for 1 minute.
a simple meat curry
Add the meat and marinade and mix over the fire for 2 minutes.
Add water, barely covering, bring to a boil, and simmer, covered, on a very low flame for an hour, if boneless, and up to 2 hour with the bones. Check to replenish water if necessary.
Add the coriander, if using, mix and serve.

* The meat can be any red meat or chicken with bones. Meats with bones will always make a more flavorful curry.

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