Poulet Banane Comorien (Comorian Chicken and Banana Stew)
A comforting and flavorful stew that balances the savory notes of chicken with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, simmered in a rich, spiced broth. This dish reflects the blend of African and tropical influences common in Comorian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 medium Ripe bananas(peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
- 2 medium Yellow onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 cups Chicken stock
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 1.5 tablespoons Curry powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onions to the same pot and sauté until softened and lightly golden.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- 5
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they begin to break down.
- 6
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock and coconut milk. Add cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- 7
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
- 8
Gently stir in the sliced bananas and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the bananas are softened but still hold their shape.
- 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using ripe but firm bananas is key to achieving the right texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice.
- ✓This stew can be made ahead of time and reheats well, allowing the flavors to meld further.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or sweet potatoes along with the tomatoes.
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of chicken stock.
- A squeeze of lime juice at the end can add a bright, fresh note.