Akoho sy Voanio
Akoho sy Voanio, meaning 'chicken with coconut,' is a popular Malagasy dish, often served during Christmas. It features chicken simmered in a rich, spiced coconut milk sauce with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger, often enhanced with saffron.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Chicken thighs(bone-in, about 8 pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 1 inch Fresh ginger(grated)
- 1 tablespoon Garlic(minced)
- 3 pieces Thai red chilies(chopped (optional, for heat))
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 can (16 oz) Diced tomatoes(with liquid)
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 6 strands Saffron threads(bloomed in 2 tsp warm water)
- 1 tablespoon Brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon Curry powder
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on all sides until golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onions to the same pan and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped chilies (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the coconut milk, diced tomatoes with their liquid, chicken broth, bloomed saffron water, brown sugar, lime juice, coriander, and curry powder. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 4
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 5
Return the browned chicken to the pan. Cover and simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over steamed rice.
💡 Tip: For a smoother sauce, you can blend it before returning the chicken to the pan, or serve as is for a more rustic texture.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using bone-in chicken thighs adds more flavor to the dish.
- ✓Ensure the saffron is properly bloomed in warm water to release its color and flavor.
- ✓This dish is often served with a side of rice and a fresh salad.
🔄 Variations
- Substitute chicken breast for thighs, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Add a pinch of turmeric for extra color and flavor.