Namibian Chicken and Okra Stew with Pap
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring tender chicken and okra simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, traditionally served with pap (a stiff maize porridge). This dish is a staple in many Namibian households, offering a comforting and nutritious meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken pieces(bone-in, skin-on, cut into serving sizes)
- 500 g Okra(trimmed and sliced)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 800 g Tomatoes(canned chopped, or fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(grated fresh)
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Curry powder
- 500 g Pap (maize meal)(for serving)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- a handful Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 3
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 6
Return the chicken to the pot. Add chopped tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. - 7
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is almost cooked through.
- 8
Add the sliced okra to the stew. Stir well and continue to simmer, covered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until okra is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
💡 Tip: Avoid over-stirring the okra once added to prevent it from becoming too mushy. - 9
While the stew is simmering, prepare the pap according to package directions. It should be a stiff, firm porridge.
💡 Tip: Pap is typically made by gradually adding maize meal to boiling water while stirring vigorously to prevent lumps. - 10
Adjust seasoning of the stew with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the chicken and okra stew hot over a generous portion of pap. Garnish with fresh coriander if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can lightly sauté it separately before adding it to the stew, or soak it in salted water for 30 minutes and then rinse.
- ✓For a spicier stew, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili along with the garlic and ginger.
- ✓If you don't have chicken broth, water can be used, but broth will add more depth of flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots along with the onions.
- For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the curry powder.
- Use beef or lamb instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.