Aloko Poulet Frites
A popular street food and casual meal in Ivory Coast, Aloko Poulet Frites features fried plantains served alongside seasoned fried chicken and french fries. It's a flavorful and satisfying combination of sweet, savory, and crispy textures.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken pieces(e.g., thighs, drumsticks, cut into manageable pieces)
- 3 large Ripe plantains(peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds)
- 500 g Potatoes(peeled and cut into french fry shapes)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped (optional, for heat))
- 1 tsp Thyme(dried)
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for frying Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Lime or lemon juice
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, curry powder, and thyme. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer in the refrigerator).
- 2
In a bowl, toss the potato fries with a little salt and pepper. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Fry the potatoes in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- 3
In the same oil (or fresh oil if preferred), fry the marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes depending on size. Drain on paper towels.
- 4
While the chicken is frying, prepare the aloko. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the plantain slices in batches until golden brown and slightly caramelized on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
- 5
In a small bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Squeeze the lime or lemon juice over this mixture and stir. This will be used to season the fried plantains.
- 6
Once the plantains are fried and drained, toss them gently with the onion, garlic, ginger, and lime mixture. Season with a pinch of salt if needed.
- 7
Serve the fried chicken and seasoned aloko hot, alongside the french fries. A simple side salad or a spicy sauce can be added.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use ripe plantains for a sweeter aloko.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough for crispier fries and chicken.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add grilled fish or beef to the platter.
- Serve with a side of spicy Ivorian sauce (e.g., piment fort).