Main Course
Chicken Curry with Nori

About this dish
A comforting chicken curry that gets a subtle umami boost from nori, the same seaweed that wraps sushi rolls. The idea came from a seaside trip to Kerala, where coconut and coastal flavors reign—here, nori adds a whisper of the ocean without overpowering the warm spices.
It’s a unique fusion that feels both familiar and exciting, perfect for when you want to try something new but still crave that hearty curry comfort.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
boneless, skinless chicken thighs
protein600 g
Imperial measurement: 1.3 lb
nori sheets
vegetable2 sheets
coconut oil
fat2 tablespoons
yellow onion
vegetable1 medium, finely chopped (about 150 g)
Imperial measurement: 1 medium, finely chopped (about 5 oz)
garlic
herb4 cloves, minced
fresh ginger
herb1 tablespoon, grated (about 15 g)
Imperial measurement: 1 tablespoon, grated (about 0.5 oz)
tomato puree
vegetable200 ml (about 7 fl oz)
Imperial measurement: 1 cup less 2 tablespoons
full-fat coconut milk
dairy400 ml (1 can)
Imperial measurement: 13.5 fl oz (1 can)
chicken stock
liquid250 ml (about 1 cup)
Imperial measurement: 1 cup
garam masala
spice2 teaspoons
ground turmeric
spice1 teaspoon
ground cumin
spice1 teaspoon
ground coriander
spice1 teaspoon
salt
seasoning1.5 teaspoons (or to taste)
cayenne pepper
spice1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
fresh cilantro
herb1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Prepare the nori
2 minutesUsing kitchen shears or a knife, cut the nori sheets into thin strips or small squares. Set aside. You'll add half to the curry during cooking and the rest for garnish.
Sauté aromatics
7 minutesHeat the coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Toast spices
1 minuteAdd the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and coriander to the pot. Stir constantly for 30-60 seconds to bloom the spices, making sure they don't burn. If using cayenne, add it now.
Add tomatoes and chicken
9 minutesPour in the tomato puree and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the puree thickens slightly. Add the chicken thighs, turning to coat them in the masala. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Simmer with coconut and stock
30 minutesPour in the coconut milk, chicken stock, and add half of the prepared nori strips. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Season and finish
2 minutesSeason with salt to taste. If the curry is too thick, you can add a splash of water or stock. Stir in a little extra nori for more umami if desired. Garnish with chopped cilantro and the remaining nori strips before serving.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen shears (optional)
Nutrition facts
Tips
- If you can't find nori sheets, you can use roasted seaweed snack sheets, but they may be saltier, so adjust the salt accordingly.
- For a richer flavor, toast the whole spices (like cumin seeds and coriander seeds) and grind them fresh. But pre-ground works beautifully here.
- Let the curry rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- This curry freezes well.
- Store.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Serving suggestions
- Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan. A side of sautéed greens or a fresh cucumber salad would complement the creamy curry beautifully.
Rate this recipe
No ratings yet. Be the first to rate it.

Recipe by
Meera Desai
Specialises in Indian cuisineMeera makes samosas with a mint-coriander chutney that people drink with a straw.
Describe yourself in three words: Green, fresh, samosa queen.