Poulet Yassa Mauritanien
A flavorful Mauritanian take on chicken and rice, infused with aromatic spices and often featuring preserved lemons and olives, though this version focuses on a rich spice blend for a unique profile.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Chicken pieces(bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks recommended)
- 3 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 teaspoons Turmeric
- 1.5 teaspoons Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Coriander
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 2 cups Rice(long-grain, rinsed)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with sliced onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken pieces on all sides until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- 3
Add the marinated onions and any remaining marinade from the bowl to the pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and lightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- 4
Return the seared chicken to the pot with the onions. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- 5
While the chicken is simmering, cook the rice according to package directions. Fluff with a fork when done.
- 6
Once the chicken is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken and onion mixture over the cooked rice. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- ✓Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not dry; the simmering time can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add sliced preserved lemons and green olives during the last 15 minutes of simmering for a more traditional Yassa flavor profile.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of tomato paste with the onions for added depth of flavor.