Maraq Digaag (Somali Chicken Stew)
Maraq Digaag is a comforting and flavorful Somali chicken stew, rich with tender chicken, vegetables, and aromatic spices. It's a staple dish often served with rice or bread, known for its savory taste and heartwarming aroma.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or mixed)
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Red onions(finely chopped)
- 4 large Garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(processed or pureed)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1-2 tablespoons Xawaash spice blend(adjust to taste)
- 2 medium Potatoes(diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(sliced)
- 3-4 cups Water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Cilantro(chopped, plus more for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a food processor, combine tomatoes, half of the chopped red onions, and minced garlic. Process until a smooth puree forms. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Alternatively, you can finely mince the onions and garlic and crush the tomatoes. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Add the remaining chopped red onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the Xawaash spice blend and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Pour in the tomato-onion-garlic puree and tomato paste. Stir well to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 6
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Pour in the water or chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Add more liquid if needed to cover the ingredients. - 7
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
⏱️ 40 minutes - 8
Stir in the chopped cilantro during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 9
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Tip: Maraq Digaag is traditionally served with basmati rice, anjero (Somali flatbread), or muufo (cornbread).
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Xawaash is a Somali spice blend that typically includes cumin, coriander, cloves, cinnamon, and turmeric. You can find it in specialty stores or make your own.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can pan-fry the potatoes and carrots separately before adding them to the stew.
- ✓Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
🔄 Variations
- Use lamb or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or a fresh chili pepper for a spicier stew.