Huku ne Dovi (Simplified Chicken and Peanut Stew)
A comforting and flavorful chicken stew where tender chicken pieces are simmered in a rich, savory peanut butter sauce. This simplified version focuses on core flavors, making it accessible for home cooks.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks(bone-in, skin-on recommended for flavor)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 0.5 cup Peanut Butter(unsweetened, smooth)
- 2 cups Chicken Broth or Water
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Chili Flakes(optional, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the chicken helps it brown better. - 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the pot; brown in batches if necessary. - 3
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the minced garlic and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down.
- 5
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, chicken broth (or water), chili flakes (if using), and any remaining salt and pepper until smooth.
💡 Tip: Ensure the peanut butter is well combined with the liquid to prevent clumps. - 6
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce. - 7
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, traditionally with sadza, rice, or a side of vegetables.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces.
- ✓If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- ✓Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred level of heat.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like chopped carrots, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes along with the tomatoes.
- For a smoother sauce, you can blend the sautéed onions and tomatoes before adding the peanut butter mixture.