Chicken Colombo is an essential dish in the French West Indies, particularly in Guadeloupe and Martinique. It is a true culinary symbol of the French Caribbean, a warm and fragrant dish, the heritage of a rich cultural mix of Indian, Creole and African traditions.
Originating from Indian influences (the name comes from “korma”, a mild curry), Colombo has become a mainstay of West Indian cuisine over the years. It can be prepared with chicken, pork,lamb or even fish, and is distinguished by its unique blend of spices: the famous massalé or colombo powder, the West Indian cousin of Indian curry.
Here’s my mom’s recipe, full of flavour and above all… love! ❤️
🍗 Ingredients for 4 people
– 1 free-range chicken (or pork or lamb, as you prefer)
– 1 large eggplant
– 500g potatoes
– 1 sachet or 3 tablespoons colombo powder (West Indian massalé)
– 1 onion
– 2 shallots
– 3 garlic cloves
– 1 bunch fresh parsley
– Fresh thyme (or thyme powder)
– 1 lime
– Provence herbs
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
👩🍳 Preparation of Chicken Colombo
1. Prepare the marinade the day before:
– In a large bowl, mix the chopped chicken with the colombo powder diluted in a glass of water.
– Add the minced garlic, onion, shallots, thyme, herbes de Provence, salt and pepper.
– Mix well, cover and leave to marinate overnight in a cool place, turning the pieces from time to time to allow them to soak in.
2. Cooking:
– In a large casserole dish, heat the olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes.
– Add the chicken pieces (without browning them) and leave to sweat over a low heat for 10 minutes, turning regularly.
– Add the diced eggplants and whole potatoes.
– Add a little water to prevent sticking, but not too much: the eggplants will release their water naturally. Simmer over low heat for about 40 minutes. The eggplants will bind the sauce.
3. Finalization:
– At the end of cooking, add the juice of a lime, a grated garlic clove and a tablespoon of olive oil.
– Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
🍚 Recommended support
Serve with basmati rice, steamed potatoes or even plantains for a complete voyage of Creole flavors.
🌍 Did you know?
Colombo takes its name from the Indian influence on West Indian culture, inherited from indentured laborers from India in the 19th century. This dish perfectly symbolizes the unique culinary mix of the French West Indies. It is often served at large family gatherings, on sunny Sundays or at local festivals.
✨ A culinary experience… at home or in a villa
You can of course reproduce this delicious West Indian Colombo recipe at home, to take your taste buds on a trip to the Caribbean sun.
But for an even more unforgettable experience, we can bring a private chef directly to your villa to prepare it in front of you, or arrange a refined catering delivery for an effortless Creole meal.
And if you want to go out, we can also book you a table at one of the best local restaurants serving this traditional dish in an exceptional setting.
