Trinidad Stewed Chicken
A classic Trinidadian dish featuring chicken pieces slow-cooked in a rich, savory sauce made with caramelized sugar, aromatics, and spices. The 'burnt sugar' method gives the chicken a deep color and a complex, slightly sweet flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 lbs Chicken(cut into pieces (thighs and drumsticks recommended))
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 5 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 stalks Scallions(chopped)
- 4 sprigs Thyme
- 4 tablespoons Ketchup
- 2 small Pimento peppers or habanero(finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1.5 cups Water or chicken broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash chicken pieces thoroughly. You can season them in advance with salt, pepper, and some of the aromatics if desired.
💡 Tip: For best results, marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight. - 2
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the brown sugar and stir continuously until it melts, bubbles, and turns a deep golden brown. Be careful not to let it burn.
💡 Tip: The sugar should reach a caramel stage, not a burnt, black stage. - 3
Immediately add the chicken pieces to the caramelized sugar. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown slightly.
- 4
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped scallions, thyme sprigs, ketchup, and optional pimento or habanero peppers. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are well distributed. - 5
Pour in the water or chicken broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
💡 Tip: Start with less salt and adjust later. - 6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 7
Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
💡 Tip: The sauce should be rich and slightly reduced. - 8
Remove thyme sprigs before serving. Serve hot with rice, peas, or your favorite side dishes.
💡 Tip: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or scallions if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to authentic stewed chicken is the 'burnt sugar' or caramelization technique.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the pot when browning the chicken.
- ✓Adjust the heat and cooking time based on the size of your chicken pieces.
- ✓Green seasoning (a blend of herbs and aromatics) can be added for extra flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced potatoes or carrots to the stew during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- For a spicier dish, add more pimento or habanero peppers.
- Some recipes include a splash of Angostura bitters or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.