Nkate Kumu Chicken
A rich and flavorful Zambian chicken stew where chicken pieces are simmered in a creamy, savory peanut and tomato sauce, often served with nshima.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into pieces, bone-in or boneless)
- 200 g Peanut butter(smooth or crunchy, unsweetened)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped, fresh or canned)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 500 ml Chicken broth or water
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1 optional Chili pepper(finely chopped, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 2
Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes (and chili pepper, if using). Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to break down.
- 4
In a separate bowl, whisk the peanut butter with a little warm water or chicken broth until smooth. This prevents lumps.
- 5
Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth or water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until chicken is tender.
- 6
Stir in the smooth peanut butter mixture. Continue to simmer gently, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- 7
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with nshima or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure peanut butter is well-mixed with liquid before adding to the pot to avoid clumps.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your preferred level of spice.
- ✓If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water.
- ✓For a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomato mixture before adding the peanut butter.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped bell peppers or other vegetables like carrots for extra flavor and texture.
- Use groundnuts (peanuts) instead of peanut butter for a more rustic texture.
- A squeeze of lime or lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.