Kuku wa Mchuzi na Pilipili Umbo (Spicy Chicken Stew)
A flavorful and aromatic chicken stew, Kuku wa Mchuzi na Pilipili Umbo is a popular Tanzanian dish characterized by its rich, savory sauce infused with the heat of 'pilipili umbo' (a type of chili pepper). It's often prepared with tender chicken pieces simmered with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices, creating a comforting and slightly spicy meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into serving pieces)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Pilipili Umbo (or other chili peppers)(finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.5 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 cup Water or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped pilipili umbo (or chili peppers). Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they break down and form a sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
- 5
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. Pour in the water or chicken broth.
- 6
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 tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken.
- 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a milder stew, remove the seeds and membranes from the chili peppers before chopping.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like potatoes or carrots along with the chicken for a heartier stew.
- ✓Serve hot with ugali, rice, or chapati.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of coconut milk in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamier sauce.
- Experiment with other spices like cumin or cardamom for added depth of flavor.