Poulet à la Vanille
A fragrant and tender chicken dish infused with the delicate aroma of vanilla, a unique Seychellois delicacy.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken pieces(bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks recommended)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 pod Vanilla bean(split and seeds scraped)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 sprigs Fresh thyme sprigs
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 3
Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, about 5 minutes.
- 6
Add the scraped vanilla seeds and the split vanilla bean pod to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and add thyme sprigs. Bring to a simmer.
- 7
Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot. Ensure they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- 8
Remove the vanilla bean pod and thyme sprigs before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you use a real vanilla bean for the best flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the chicken; it should be tender but not falling apart.
- ✓Serve with steamed rice or a side of sautéed greens.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- A splash of white wine can be added with the tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.