Nzondora (Chicken Feet Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew made from chicken feet, simmered with vegetables and spices. This dish is a popular delicacy in Zimbabwe, often enjoyed for its rich broth and tender texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken feet(peeled, cleaned, and trimmed)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and diced)
- 2 cups Squash(diced)
- 1 uncut Chilli pepper(optional, for mild spice)
- 0.5 tsp Chicken spice
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- to taste Salt
- 4-6 cups Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chicken feet by thoroughly cleaning and trimming them. If using, remove the toenails.
💡 Tip: Ensure all feet are well-rinsed. - 2
In a soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Lightly fry the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the onion is translucent.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add the cleaned chicken feet to the pot and fry them in the oil for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Pour in 4-6 cups of water, add the chicken spice, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
⏱️ 40 minutes - 5
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and squash to the pot. If using, add the whole chilli pepper.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 6
Continue to boil for another 30 minutes, or until the chicken feet are soft and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. Ensure the water level is maintained.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 7
Season the stew to taste with salt. Remove the chilli pepper before serving.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a bay leaf during simmering.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables against the side of the pot.
- ✓Serve hot with sadza or rice.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like peas or green beans.
- For a spicier dish, finely chop the chilli pepper and add it with the other vegetables.