Master the Art of Authentic Trini Curry Duck with Chief Brand

Chief Brand Curry Duck

Master the Art of Authentic Trini Curry Duck with Chief Brand

There is something truly special about a bubbling pot of Curry Duck. For any Trinidadian, the aroma alone—earthy roasted geera, pungent garlic, and that unmistakable rich curry blend—unlocks a flood of memories. It’s the centerpiece of river limes, the star of family gatherings, and the ultimate comfort food when paired with a hot, silky "buss up shut" roti or steaming white rice.

But here is the secret that every Caribbean cook knows: authentic flavor requires authentic ingredients. You cannot simply swap in generic spices and expect that same deep, complex taste that you grew up loving. That is why we are going back to the source today with a classic recipe from Chief Brand. Whether you are missing home or looking to try your hand at this iconic dish for the first time, My Trini Grocery has every essential spice you need to get it exactly right.

Ingredients List:

For the Meat:

• 3 1/2 lbs Duck, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup Chief Green Seasoning
• 1 1/2 tbsp Chief Brand Curry Powder
• 1 tbsp Chief Brand Salt
• 1 tbsp Chief Brand Black Pepper

For the Pot:

• 3 tbsp Coconut Oil
• 1/4 tsp Chief Brand Whole Cumin Seeds (Whole Geera)
• 1/4 tsp Chief Brand Mathee Seeds (Fenugreek)
• 2 Chief Brand Cardamom Pods
• 2 tbsp Onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp Garlic, chopped
• 2 tbsp Celery, minced
• 1 tsp Ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp Chadon Beni, chopped
• 4 Curry Leaves (Carapoulay)
• 2 tbsp Chief Hot & Spicy Duck/Goat Curry Powder
• 1 tbsp Chief Garam Masala
• 1/2 tbsp Chief Roasted Geera (Cumin Powder)
• 2 tsp Chief Saffron / Turmeric Powder
• Chief Brand Tamarind Sauce (to taste)
• Water (approx. 2 cups divided)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Duck: In a medium bowl, combine your duck pieces with the Chief Green Seasoning, regular Chief Brand Curry Powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat every piece. For the deepest flavor, let this marinate overnight, or for at least one hour.
2. Toast the Whole Spices: Place a heavy iron pot over high heat. Add your coconut oil. Once hot, toss in the Chief Brand Whole Geera, Mathee seeds, and Cardamom pods. Toast them for about 30 seconds until they sizzle and release their aroma.
3. Sauté Aromatics & Spices: Add the chopped onions, garlic, celery, ginger, curry leaves, and chadon beni to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Next, add your ground spice blend: Chief Hot & Spicy Duck/Goat Curry Powder, Chief Saffron / Turmeric Powder, Chief Roasted Geera, and Chief Garam Masala. Stir well and let the spices cook in the oil for another 3 minutes to "parch" and develop a deep color.
4. Cook the Curry Paste: Pour in 1 cup of water to the pot. Cover and let this curry paste cook for 3 minutes. This step ensures your curry base is smooth and fully cooked.
5. Bunjal the Duck: Add your seasoned duck to the pot. Stir vigorously to coat the meat in the rich curry paste. Cover the pot and cook on medium-high heat for about 12 minutes. This allows the duck to spring its own natural juices and absorb the curry flavor.
6. Simmer to Perfection: Add the remaining water and scrape the bottom of the pot with your spoon to release any caramelized bits (this is where the flavor lives!). Stir in the Tamarind Sauce. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer for 25–35 minutes, or until the duck is tender.
7. Finish & Serve: If you prefer a saucier finish, you can add a little more water. Uncover and cook on low heat for a final 10–12 minutes to thicken the gravy to your liking. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Remove from heat and serve hot!

Tips & Serving Suggestions:

• The "Bunjal" Technique: The step where you let the liquid reduce until the curry clings thickly to the meat is often called "bunjaling." For a dry curry duck (perfect for "cutters"), let all the liquid evaporate at the end. For a main meal with rice, leave a little gravy.
• Pairing: This dish is traditionally served with Dhalpuri Roti or Paratha (Buss Up Shut), but it is equally delicious alongside white rice and a slice of zaboca (avocado).

Ready to make this at home? Get all your authentic Chief Brand spices and other Trini essentials delivered right to your door. Shop now at My Trini Grocery!