Step 1: Pan-fry Carrots and Potatoes

Add 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil to a pan. Add the carrots and pan-fry until slightly browned, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then, add the potatoes and continue frying until they are also slightly browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the carrots and potatoes from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Pan-fry Bell Pepper

Using the same pan, add the red bell pepper and pan-fry until slightly softened and browned, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the bell pepper and set aside with the other vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Heat a wok or large pot with 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns light brown, approximately 1-2 minutes. Then, add the julienned ginger and sauté for another minute. Add the chopped onion and fry until soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Chicken with Spices

Add the chicken pieces to the wok with the sautéed aromatics. Add bay leaves, ground black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly and cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Add Curry Paste

Add the entire packet of curry paste to the chicken in the wok. Mix well, ensuring all chicken pieces are evenly coated with the curry paste, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Simmer Chicken

Pour 1.5-2 cups of water into the wok, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged. Add the optional Magic Sarap seasoning. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the wok, and let it simmer until the chicken is tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.

Step 7: Combine with Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked and tender, add the previously fried carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper back into the wok. Mix well to integrate all the vegetables with the curry sauce.

Step 8: Final Simmer and Serve

Cover the wok again and let it simmer for a few more minutes, approximately 5-10 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and serve hot.

• Adjust the simmering time in the final step if you prefer a drier curry.

• You can add coconut milk for a creamier curry.

• Other vegetables like green beans or peas can be added.