Chadian Chicken and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring tender chicken pieces simmered with a medley of vegetables in a rich, spiced tomato-based broth. This dish is a staple in many Chadian households, offering a balanced and nourishing meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into pieces, bone-in or boneless)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or diced)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 medium Bell peppers(chopped (any color))
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 1 medium Zucchini(chopped)
- 1 medium Sweet potato(peeled and cubed)
- 500 ml Vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp Peanut oil
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- a handful Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat peanut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 2
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the paste to deepen in color.
- 5
Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 6
Return the chicken to the pot. Add the bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and sweet potato. Pour in the vegetable broth.
💡 Tip: Ensure vegetables are submerged in liquid - 7
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking - 8
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, add a little more broth or water. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
💡 Tip: Adjust seasoning as needed - 9
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This stew is often enjoyed with rice, millet, or a side of bread.
💡 Tip: Pairs well with couscous or fufu
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- ✓Feel free to add other vegetables like okra, eggplant, or spinach.
- ✓Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add a can of drained chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
- Incorporate a bay leaf during simmering for an aromatic touch.
- For a spicier kick, add a chopped chili pepper along with the onions.