Cuisine – Mother’s Day meal made with love

Mother’s Day is a time to slow down, show appreciation, and create moments that feel truly special. While gifts are always appreciated, there’s something deeply meaningful about a home-cooked meal made with love, especially one Mum didn’t have to prepare herself.

This year, instead of heading out to busy restaurants, bring that warmth and comfort home. A rich, creamy butter chicken made using commercial curry paste is the perfect way to do just that. It’s a dish that feels indulgent and comforting, yet is wonderfully simple to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time together.

Butter chicken is a classic for a reason. With tender pieces of chicken simmered in a velvety, spiced sauce, it delivers layers of flavour that feel both familiar and special. Using a good quality, healthy curry paste takes the guesswork out of cooking, giving you a beautifully balanced base of spices in just a few spoonfuls.

Served with fluffy rice or warm naan, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh coriander, it becomes more than just dinner, it becomes an experience. Because on Mother’s Day, it’s not just about the food, it’s about making her feel cared for, appreciated, and truly spoiled.

And while flowers are wonderful, maybe consider getting a beautiful potted plant from Jim and Margaret from Ōrewa Beach Market on Sunday morning. Truly giving mum something she can enjoy for longer!

Easy Butter Chicken
500g chicken breast, diced
2 Tbsp oil
50g butter
3 Tbsp crushed tomatoes (or 1 medium tomato, diced)
2½ Tbsp Curry Paste
200ml dairy or cashew cream
½ tsp Garam Masala
Salt, to taste,
Fresh coriander, to garnish

Heat oil and butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add the chicken and sauté lightly until sealed.
Mix curry paste with a little hot water, add and cook 4-5 minutes.
Add tomatoes, cover and cook 7-10 minutes until chicken is tender.
Turn off heat and stir through cream.
Finish with Garam Masala and garnish with coriander.
Serve with rice, naan or roti.