Cinnamon sticks are made from long pieces of bark from various laurel trees that are rolled, pressed and dried. The type of cinnamon used in Thailand is from the Cassia tree. Cinnamon has a sweet, woody fragrance in both ground and stick forms. Rich in therapeutic essential oils, cinnamon warms the body and enhances digestion. It boosts metabolism and is thus useful for weight loss. It is also good for diabetes as it stimulates insulin production.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
Cucumber relish:
Thai Rice Curry with Herbed Chicken:
Preparation
For Cucumber Relish:
Step 1
In a saucepan, bring vinegar and honey to a boil. Stir frequently until the honey has dissolved and continue to cook for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat. Once cooled, add cucumber, chiles and coriander and stir well. Set aside until ready to serve.
For Thai Rice Curry with Herbed Chicken:
Step 2
Heat the coconut milk in a large saucepan or casserole dish which has a lid. Add shallot, garlic and ginger, and cook over a low to medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Add chicken and turn up the heat until it is evenly browned. Add curry powder and turmeric powder and stir well to evenly coat chicken. Add rice, soy sauce and miso paste, and stir well. Pour in 250 ml (9 fl oz/1 cup) water and stir well. Add cardamom pods, bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 30-35 minutes or until the rice is cooked and tender. Remove from heat and leave for 10 minutes leaving the lid on. After 10 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork and discard cardamom pods, bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Serve rice curry warm with cucumber relish on the side.
