Ashanti Chicken

Ashanti Chicken Recipe from Ghana with Yams, Onion, Tomato, Parsley, and Mint

Region / culture: Ghana | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Ashanti Chicken is a sumptuous and traditional dish that hails from the Ashanti Region in Ghana. This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining tender chicken with the sweetness of yams and the aromatic presence of herbs like parsley and mint. It's a dish that promises to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey through the rich culinary landscape of West Africa. Perfect for special occasions or a hearty family dinner, Ashanti Chicken is not just a meal; it's an experience.

History

The origins of Ashanti Chicken can be traced back to the Ashanti people of Ghana, known for their rich culture and traditions, which extend to their food. This dish is deeply rooted in the Ashanti heritage and was traditionally prepared during significant events and celebrations. Over time, it has spread in popularity across West Africa and beyond, with each region adding its unique twist to the recipe. The use of yams, a staple in African cuisine, and the method of stuffing and cooking the chicken, reflects the resourcefulness and culinary creativity of the Ashanti people.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken, 2-3 lb, deboned
1 lb yams (or potatoes, or sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into quarters
1 lb chicken meat, white or dark (no bones)
cooking oil for frying chicken
1 small onion, chopped
1 tomato, chopped (or a spoonful of tomato paste or tomato sauce)
a handful of parsley, chopped
a few mint leaves, chopped
salt and black pepper, to taste

How to prepare

Boil the yams (or potatoes, or sweet potatoes) until they are tender. Once tender, remove them from the water and mash them.
While the yams are cooking, fry the chicken meat (not the whole chicken) in a few tablespoons of oil. When it is nearly done, add the onion and tomato. Reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked.
Add the chicken-onion-tomato mixture to the mashed yam (or its substitute). Add parsley, mint, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Stuff the deboned chicken with the yam-chicken mixture. Sew the chicken closed with a needle and cooking string. Rub it with butter or oil, salt, and pepper.
Steam the stuffed chicken for two hours in a large Dutch oven (place the chicken on something to keep it out of the boiling water). Then, baste it with oil or butter and bake or grill it until it turns golden brown. Alternatively, you can bake or grill the stuffed chicken until it is browned, and then wrap it in foil to allow it to continue cooking until fully done.
Regardless of the method used, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Ensure to check the temperature of both the whole chicken and the stuffing.
Serve ginger beer or green tea with mint with or after the meal.

Variations

1. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken and meat with a mix of mushrooms and chickpeas.
2. Add a spicy kick by including chili peppers or cayenne pepper in the stuffing.
3. Swap sweet potatoes with regular potatoes or yams based on availability or preference.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Deboning the chicken might seem daunting, but patience and a sharp knife will make the process smoother. You can also ask your butcher to debone it for you.

2. To enhance the flavors, marinate the chicken meat that will be used for the stuffing in spices and herbs for a few hours or overnight.

3. Ensure the yams are well-mashed to avoid lumps in your stuffing.

4. When sewing the chicken closed, use cooking string and a proper needle. This ensures the stuffing stays inside while cooking.

5. To keep the chicken moist, baste it regularly with butter or oil during the baking or grilling process.

Serving Suggestions

Ashanti Chicken is best served hot, accompanied by ginger beer or green tea with mint as suggested. It can also be paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Cooking Techniques

The unique cooking technique of stuffing and then steaming followed by baking or grilling gives Ashanti Chicken its distinctive flavor and texture. Steaming ensures the chicken is cooked through and tender, while baking or grilling provides a crispy, golden exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. If sweet potatoes are not available, use yams or regular potatoes.

2. Parsley and mint can be substituted with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.

3. For a lower fat option, use skinless chicken parts and a minimal amount of oil or butter.

Make Ahead Tips

The stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated. The chicken can also be deboned and kept ready. This makes the final preparation quicker and more efficient, especially when cooking for an event or a large family dinner.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Ashanti Chicken on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and slices of lime or lemon. A colorful side salad or steamed vegetables can add visual appeal and balance to the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a fruity red can complement the rich flavors of Ashanti Chicken well. For non-alcoholic options, ginger beer, as suggested, or a mint-infused iced tea would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Ashanti Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the chicken.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Ashanti Chicken can contain approximately 300-400 calories, making it a hearty and nutritious option for a main meal. The exact calorie count can vary based on the size of the serving and the specific ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in Ashanti Chicken comes from the sweet potatoes, providing about 26 grams per 100 grams. Sweet potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, essential for digestive health, and also offer a slow release of energy, keeping you fuller for longer.

Fats

The fats in this dish mainly come from the chicken and the oil or butter used for cooking. Depending on the preparation method, the fat content can vary. Using lean cuts of chicken and minimal oil or butter can help reduce the overall fat content. Approximately, the dish can contain about 10-15 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Ashanti Chicken is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken and meat used in the stuffing. On average, a serving can provide about 25-30 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the sweet potatoes and parsley. Sweet potatoes are high in Vitamin A, while parsley is a good source of Vitamin C, both crucial for immune function. Additionally, chicken provides B vitamins, necessary for energy production.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include potential gluten in the tomato sauce (if not using a gluten-free option) and possible cross-contamination with nuts depending on the cooking environment. Always check the labels of store-bought ingredients for allergen information.

Summary

Ashanti Chicken is a balanced dish, offering a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that can fit into a balanced diet, providing energy and vital nutrients.

Summary

Ashanti Chicken is a celebration of flavors and traditions, bringing a piece of Ghanaian culinary heritage to your table. With its rich history, nutritious profile, and delicious taste, it's a dish that offers both a feast for the senses and nourishment for the body. Whether you're exploring new cuisines or looking for a special meal to share with loved ones, Ashanti Chicken is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend, Mrs. Thompson. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Ashanti Chicken caught my eye. The ingredients were simple yet exotic, and the instructions seemed easy enough to follow.

I had never heard of Ashanti Chicken before, but the name alone intrigued me. I knew that I had to give it a try. Mrs. Thompson had always been my go-to source for new and exciting recipes, and I trusted her judgment when it came to good food.

I decided to make the Ashanti Chicken for dinner that night. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – chicken thighs, onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. As I chopped and sautéed, the kitchen filled with a warm and comforting aroma. I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

When the Ashanti Chicken was finally ready, I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a far-off land. The flavors were bold and complex, yet harmonious in their marriage. The tender chicken melted in my mouth, and the sauce was rich and velvety. I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this recipe. Where did it come from? Who had first created it? I made a mental note to do some research and uncover the story behind Ashanti Chicken.

The next day, I called Mrs. Thompson to thank her for introducing me to such a delicious dish. She chuckled and said that she had learned the recipe from a friend who had traveled to Ghana many years ago. The Ashanti region of Ghana was known for its vibrant culture and flavorful cuisine, and this chicken dish was a staple in their culinary repertoire.

I was thrilled to learn about the history behind the recipe. It added another layer of depth and meaning to an already incredible dish. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, and introduce them to the flavors of Ashanti Chicken.

Over the years, I have made Ashanti Chicken countless times. It has become a beloved favorite in my household, and my grandchildren always request it when they come to visit. I take pride in knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that spans continents and generations.

Each time I make Ashanti Chicken, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and to each other. It is more than just a meal – it is a story, a journey, a shared experience. And I am grateful to have stumbled upon it that cold winter day, tucked away in Mrs. Thompson's old cookbook.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the many recipes I have collected and mastered over the years, Ashanti Chicken holds a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that cooking has brought me, and the connections it has helped me forge with those around me.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a new and exciting recipe to try, I urge you to give Ashanti Chicken a chance. Let its flavors transport you to a distant land, let its history intrigue and inspire you. And most of all, let it bring you closer to those you love, just as it has done for me.