Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons coarsely crushed black peppercorns
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 3/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 large garlic clove, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced serrano or Thai chile
  • 3/4 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup broken raw cashews
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Method

  • In a bowl, combine the coriander with the cumin, peppercorns, turmeric and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt.
  • Add the chicken and rub with the spices to coat.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and let stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.
  • In a large deep nonstick skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the oil.
  • Add the onions and cook over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 8 minutes.
  • Add the chicken, garlic, ginger, serrano chile and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and just cooked through, about 10 minutes.
  • Stir in 1/4 cup of the coconut milk and the water, then cover and cook over low heat for 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a small skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil.
  • Add the cashews and cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes.
  • Drain on paper towels.
  • Add the remaining 1/2 cup of coconut milk and the lemon juice to the chicken and simmer, stirring.
  • Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with the cashews; serve hot.