Mchuzi wa Kuku na Viazi
A hearty and flavorful Tanzanian chicken and potato stew, simmered in a rich tomato and coconut milk base with aromatic spices. This comforting dish is a staple in many Tanzanian households, often served with ugali or rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into pieces)
- 500 g Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 cup Water(or as needed)
- a handful Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Ensure onions are evenly cooked for a good flavor base. - 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
⏱️ 2 minutes💡 Tip: Toasting the spices enhances their flavor. - 4
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 5
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. Season with salt and black pepper.
💡 Tip: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor. - 6
Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- 7
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is starting to cook through.
⏱️ 20 minutes💡 Tip: Simmering allows flavors to meld. - 8
Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir, cover, and continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 9
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If the stew is too thick, add a little more water. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
💡 Tip: Seasoning is key to a delicious dish. - 10
Garnish with fresh chopped coriander before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier stew, add a chopped chili pepper along with the onions.
- ✓You can substitute chicken with beef or goat meat, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- ✓Serve hot with ugali, rice, or chapati.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.