Samoan Chicken Curry (Moa Kari)

Curry arrived in Samoa through the movement of people and flavors across the Pacific, and Samoans made it their own with a gentle hand on the spice and a generous pour of coconut cream. Moa kari is now a staple at Samoan family events, cooked in huge pots to feed the whole extended family. It is the dish that shows how happily island cooking absorbs new ideas while keeping its coconut-rich soul.

What makes it great: the curry is aromatic but not fiery, with creamy coconut taming the spices into something comforting and family-friendly. Soft potatoes soak up the golden sauce, and it is best eaten over steamed rice, with everyone reaching for seconds.

See where this dish fits among the world’s curries: World of Curries guide.

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