Coronation Turkey Curry: A Perfect Post-Christmas Meal

Coronation Turkey Curry: A Perfect Post-Christmas Meal

Posted by Copas Farm Shop on 23rd Sep 2025

After the indulgence of Christmas Day, leftover turkey often gets a starring role in sandwiches, but why stop there? This Coronation Turkey Curry is a delicious twist on Coronation Chicken, a classic British dish that has been enjoyed for over six decades. Created in 1953 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, Coronation Chicken is a dish that has stood the test of time and is still popular today. This curry takes the concept further, transforming festive leftovers into a warming, flavoursome meal.

Can I make Coronation Curry with leftover turkey?
Yes! Leftover turkey is perfect in this recipe. It soaks up the curry’s aromatic spices and creamy sauce, giving you a dish that feels fresh and indulgent even after Christmas.

Is Coronation Chicken the same as Coronation Curry?
Not exactly. Coronation Chicken is a cold, creamy dish with a mild curry flavour, traditionally served with rice or sandwiches. Coronation Turkey Curry is a warm, spiced take on that classic, incorporating coconut milk, chickpeas, apricots, and raisins for a heartier meal perfect for chilly days.

Sweet apricots and raisins, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of spice make this curry a comforting yet vibrant dish, perfect for serving with fluffy rice and soft naan. It’s a great example of how a simple recipe can be elevated with the right combination of spices and ingredients.

Method:

  1. Open, rinse and drain the chickpeas & set aside.

  2. In a large saucepan over a medium heat, fry the onions in a splash of oil, until softened and golden brown.

  3. Add the garlic and ginger and fry for a further minute.

  4. Add the tomato purée, coronation sauce, coconut milk, stock and seasoning and bring to the boil.

  5. Reduce the heat, add the chickpeas and chilli and allow to simmer for 30 minutes.

  6. Add the turkey, apricots and raisins and cook for a further 5 minutes or until the turkey is warmed through. Taste and add more seasoning if required.

  7. Remove from the heat and stir through the majority of the coriander, holding just a little back for presentation.

  8. Serve with flaked almonds, the remaining coriander, and a dollop of Greek yoghurt. This is best served with rice and a naan.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Large Onions – Finely Diced

  • 750g Leftover Copas free-range Turkey – Diced or Shredded

  • 1 Jar of our delicious Copas Artisan Coronation Sauce

  • 300g Apricots – Roughly Chopped

  • 300g Raisins

  • 400ml Coconut Milk

  • 250ml Turkey Stock (Chicken stock will also work)

  • 400g Chickpeas

  • 3cm Ginger – Finely Grated

  • 3 Cloves Garlic – Crushed

  • 3 tbsp Tomato Purée

  • 1 Large Bunch Coriander – Roughly Chopped

  • 2 Red Chillies – Finely Sliced and Deseeded (you can leave some seeds in if you prefer a hotter curry)

  • Flaked Almonds & Yoghurt to serve

  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Serves: 6

We think you will agree that this Coronation Turkey Curry is the perfect way to breathe new life into your leftover Christmas turkey. With its warming spices, sweet fruits, and creamy coconut sauce, it’s a delicious dish that the whole family will love. Serve it with rice and naan for a hearty, satisfying meal, and enjoy a delicious twist on a true British classic.