Green, firm, unripe mangoes are a world away from their juicy, sweet, ripened counterparts, acting more like a vegetable that’s delicious when shredded or gently softened in a sauce. This Sri Lankan curry puts the fruit centre stage, bolstering its pleasing texture with an array of spices, warming chilli and – of course – Sri Lanka’s beloved coconut.
Begin by making the roasted curry powder. Toast all the ingredients in a dry frying pan for a few minutes until fragrant, then grind into a powder using a pestle and mortar or spice grinder. Store in an airtight container until needed
Place the mango flesh and its seed in a bowl with the chilli powder, turmeric, salt, 125ml water and 2 teaspoons of the roasted curry powder. Mix well add leave to marinate
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and once they begin to crackle add the ginger, garlic, green chilli, cardamom pods, cloves, dried chillies and cinnamon. Fry for a minute until fragrant, then add the onion
Cook for a few minutes, then stir in the curry leaves and pandan leaf. Add the mango (discarding the seed), bring to the boil, then cover and leave to simmer for 12 minutes
Add the coconut milk, then cover and leave to cook for a further 5 minutes. Add the sugar and vinegar and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the mango is tender. You may need to add a little more water if the curry starts to catch on the bottom of the pan
Taste for seasoning, adjusting the salt and sugar if needed, then serve with rice
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