Kenyan Mchuzi wa Kuku na Viazi (Chicken and Potato Stew)
A comforting and savory stew featuring tender pieces of chicken simmered with potatoes in a rich, spiced tomato and onion gravy. This is a staple in many Kenyan households, often served with ugali or rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into serving pieces)
- 3 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped or pureed)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 4 tbsp Cooking oil
- 2.5 cups Water or chicken broth
- 1.5 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 2
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and lightly golden.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until aromatic.
- 5
Add the chopped or pureed tomatoes. Cook down until the tomatoes have broken down and the oil starts to separate from the sauce.
- 6
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the cubed potatoes and pour in the water or chicken broth. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- 7
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the potatoes are soft. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
- 8
Check the consistency of the stew. If it's too thin, you can remove the lid and let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken.
- ✓If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can blend some of the cooked potatoes and return them to the stew.
- ✓Ensure potatoes are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- ✓This stew pairs wonderfully with ugali, chapati, or steamed rice.
🔄 Variations
- Add a can of coconut milk in the last 15 minutes of cooking for a creamy, mild flavor.
- Include other vegetables like carrots or peas along with the potatoes.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.