Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot

Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot Recipe - Authentic Taste of the Caribbean

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 7 minutes under pressure | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot is a flavorful and hearty stew that combines the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with tender chicken, okra, sweet potatoes, and collard greens. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with its rich and aromatic spices.

History

This recipe has its roots in Caribbean cuisine, where bold flavors and fresh ingredients are key. The combination of chicken, okra, sweet potatoes, and collard greens creates a satisfying and nutritious meal that is loved by many in the region.

Ingredients

0.25 cup vegetable oil
1 medium onion, halved and sliced
2 bay leaves
1.5 tbsp kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
2 tsp ground allspice
1 heaping teaspoon dried thyme
0.33 cup tomato paste
freshly ground black pepper
8 skinless, bone-in chicken thighs (about 2.5 lb or 1.13 kg)
3.5 cup water
1 scotch bonnet chile, pierced (if you like it really hot, mince it)
8 oz or 227 g fresh okra, trimmed, halved crosswise
3 thick sweet potatoes (about 2 lb or 907 g), each cut into 4 rounds with skin on
1 bunch collard greens (about 1 lb or 454 g), stems removed, chopped

How to prepare

Heat a 7-liter pressure cooker over medium heat.
Stir in the oil, onion, bay leaves, 1.5 tbsp of salt, the allspice, and thyme; cook, uncovered, until soft, about 8 minutes.
Increase the heat to high, stir in the tomato paste, and cook, stirring and scraping, until it turns brick red, about 2 minutes.
Season the chicken with some salt and black pepper, to taste, and add it to the pot, turning to coat with the tomato and onion.
Stir in the water, then add the chile, okra, potatoes, and collard greens in that order.
You don't need to stir — the collards will cook down and keep everything moist as the cooker comes up to pressure.
Close the pressure cooker lid and bring the pressure up to high (which can take up to 10 minutes), then reduce the heat, if necessary, to maintain an even pressure for 7 minutes.
Remove from the heat and press the pressure indicator stem until no more steam comes out.
Carefully open the pot.
Remove and discard bay leaves.
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
Add a can of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before adding it to the pot to ensure that it is flavorful throughout.

- Be sure to cook the tomato paste until it turns brick red to develop a deep and rich flavor in the stew.

- Allow the stew to cook under pressure for the full 7 minutes to ensure that the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stew with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can add a bright and fresh finish to the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cooking is the key to this recipe, as it allows the flavors to develop quickly and the chicken to become tender in a short amount of time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find okra, you can substitute with green beans or snap peas. You can also use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer white meat.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve in colorful bowls to showcase the vibrant ingredients.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp and refreshing salad, or a side of plantains for a true taste of the Caribbean. A glass of fruity red wine or a cold beer would also complement the flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium from the collard greens and sweet potatoes.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies to the ingredients listed.

Summary

Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot is a delicious and comforting stew that brings the flavors of the Caribbean to your table. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I flipped through the yellowed pages and faded handwritten notes, my eyes fell upon a piece of paper with a title that intrigued me.

"Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot," it read in elegant cursive handwriting. The name alone conjured up images of exotic spices, vibrant colors, and bold flavors. I knew immediately that I had to try making it.

I traced the origins of the recipe back to a dear friend of mine who had traveled extensively throughout the Caribbean. She had regaled me with tales of her culinary adventures and had promised to share some of her favorite recipes with me. This was one of them.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully measuring out each one with precision. The recipe called for a variety of spices that I had never used before, including cumin, coriander, and allspice. The aroma of these spices filled my kitchen, transporting me to a faraway tropical paradise.

As the chicken simmered in a rich tomato broth infused with the flavors of the Caribbean, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. I knew that this dish would be something special, something that would transport me to a place of sun-drenched beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters.

When the time came to taste the finished dish, I was not disappointed. The chicken was tender and flavorful, the broth rich and aromatic, and the peppers added a spicy kick that lingered on my tongue. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced across my palate, leaving me craving more.

I shared the dish with my family, who marveled at the exotic flavors and begged for the recipe. I proudly shared the story of how I came to discover it, and my family listened with rapt attention as I recounted the tale of my friend's travels and the magical recipe she had shared with me.

From that day on, Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot became a staple in our household. I made it for special occasions, for family gatherings, and just for the sheer joy of cooking something delicious and exotic. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to my friend and to the vibrant culture of the Caribbean.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on that fateful day when I discovered the recipe for Caribbean Chicken Pepper Pot, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express creativity and love through food. And this recipe, with its bold flavors and exotic ingredients, has become a symbol of that passion.

I may never have the opportunity to travel to the Caribbean myself, but through this recipe, I can experience a taste of that beautiful and vibrant culture. And for that, I am truly grateful.