Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew Recipe from Sierra Leone with Groundnut and Red Peppers

Region / culture: Sierra Leone | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken stew is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe is a classic that has been passed down through generations, loved for its rich flavors and tender chicken.

History

Chicken stew has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, with variations found in cuisines around the world. It is a dish that is often made with simple ingredients, making it an affordable and easy meal to prepare.

Ingredients

1 stewing chicken
1 small tin of tomato puree
1 large onion (chopped)
0.5 pt (237 ml) of groundnut oil
1 tsp of thyme
salt to taste
2 cups of water
2 red peppers (chopped)

How to prepare

Wash and cut the chicken into segments. Season and fry in oil until the chicken is golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Add the chopped onion and pepper to the same oil and cook for about ten minutes, stirring constantly.
Add tomato puree and stir vigorously to distribute it evenly.
Pour in about 0.5 cup of water and cook gently for about 5 minutes.
Put in the fried chicken segments and add the rest of the water, thyme, and salt. Cover the saucepan and cook slowly over low heat until the chicken is tender, adding more water as desired.
Serve with rice or boiled yam with green vegetables.

Variations

Add diced carrots, celery, or potatoes for extra vegetables.
Use different herbs and spices such as paprika, cumin, or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before frying to enhance the flavors of the stew.

- Cooking the onions and peppers slowly will help to develop their sweetness and depth of flavor.

- Adding water gradually while cooking the stew will help to create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken stew with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before adding it to the stew will help to develop a rich and savory flavor.

- Cooking the stew slowly over low heat will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts instead of a whole stewing chicken.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the chicken stew with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the chicken stew with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 320

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Fats: 15g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies before serving.

Summary

Chicken stew is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Chicken stew is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender chicken in this delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for dinner. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering chicken stew enveloped me in a warm embrace.

Martha greeted me with a smile and a hug, and then she handed me a steaming bowl of the most delicious-looking chicken stew I had ever seen. The tender pieces of chicken, the hearty vegetables, and the rich broth all seemed to beckon me closer. I took a tentative bite, and my taste buds exploded with joy.

"Martha, this stew is amazing! How did you make it?" I asked eagerly.

Martha chuckled and replied, "Oh, it's just a simple family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Would you like me to teach you how to make it?"

I nodded enthusiastically, and that evening, Martha taught me the secret to making the most mouthwatering chicken stew I had ever tasted. As we cooked together, she shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been in their family for as long as anyone could remember, and each generation had added their own twist to make it truly special.

From that day on, I was determined to master the art of making chicken stew. I practiced diligently, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I found the perfect balance of flavors. I made the stew for my family, my friends, and anyone who would listen, and soon it became my signature dish.

Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, incorporating new ideas and inspirations from my travels and experiences. I learned to make the stew with a touch of curry powder for a hint of spice, or with a splash of white wine for a touch of elegance. I even once added a handful of fresh herbs from my garden, and the result was simply divine.

But no matter how many variations I tried, the essence of the recipe remained the same. It was a dish that warmed the soul and brought people together, just as it had done for generations in Martha's family.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a pot of chicken stew for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude. The recipe that had once captivated me had now become a cherished tradition in my own family, a link to the past and a promise for the future.

As I stir the pot, inhaling the familiar scent of simmering chicken and vegetables, I smile to myself. The joy of cooking, of sharing a meal with loved ones, and of passing down a beloved recipe from one generation to the next is a truly precious gift.

And so, as I ladle steaming bowls of chicken stew onto plates for my grandchildren, I know that I am not just serving them a delicious meal. I am passing on a piece of my heart, a piece of my history, and a piece of the love that has always been the secret ingredient in every dish I make.

For me, chicken stew is more than just a recipe. It is a reminder of the power of food to nourish not just our bodies, but our spirits as well. And that, my dear grandchildren, is a lesson worth savoring with every bite.