Chickennat

Chickennat Recipe from Uganda with Peanut and Parsley

Region / culture: Uganda | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Chickennat is a delicious and hearty chicken stew that is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.

History

Chickennat is a traditional West African dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of chicken and peanuts is a classic flavor pairing in many African cuisines, and this stew is a popular comfort food in countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal.

Ingredients

1 2-3 lb (1.36 kg) chicken, cut into pieces
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
0.5 cup butter
0.5 cup onions, chopped
1 pt (473 ml) chicken stock
0.75 cup pure peanut butter, or 1 lb (454 g) roasted peanuts, ground to a paste
1 to 2 egg yolks
several sprigs of parsley, coarsely chopped

How to prepare

Chicken Stew Recipe

Firstly, rub the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Then, melt butter in a large, heavy skillet or stew pot, and add the chicken and onions. Cover and let it simmer over the lowest heat, periodically adding stock until you have used it all. If you don't have stock, you can add plain water or bouillon. After 15 minutes, remove half a cup of the cooking liquid to thin the peanut butter or paste. Add this to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and then whisk some of the hot stew liquid into the egg yolks. Add this to the pot and stir to incorporate the egg mixture into the stew. Let it simmer gently until the chicken is cooked. Be careful not to heat the stew above a simmer from this point. Finally, garnish with parsley leaves and serve with rice or a corn porridge. This recipe serves 4 - 6 people.

Variations

For a spicier version, add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the stew.
For a vegetarian option, substitute tofu for the chicken.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a heavy skillet or stew pot to cook the chicken, as this will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent burning.

- To achieve a creamy texture, be sure to whisk some of the hot stew liquid into the egg yolks before adding them to the pot. This will help to prevent the eggs from curdling.

- Garnish the stew with fresh parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Chickennat is delicious when served with rice or corn porridge.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Chickennat is to simmer the stew gently over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have peanuts on hand, you can use almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Chickennat can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chickennat in a large bowl with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chickennat pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chickennat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chickennat contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chickennat contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chickennat contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chickennat contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chickennat is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and iron.

Alergens

Chickennat contains peanuts and eggs.

Summary

Chickennat is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chickennat is a flavorful and comforting chicken stew that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich peanut sauce and tender chicken pieces, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a sunny summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe book that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I turned the delicate pages, yellowed with age, I stumbled upon a recipe for a dish called Chickennat.

I had never heard of Chickennat before, but the ingredients intrigued me. It called for tender chicken pieces, fragrant spices, creamy coconut milk, and a generous handful of fresh herbs. The recipe was simple yet exotic, and I knew I had to try it out.

I decided to make Chickennat for dinner that night, and as the aroma of spices filled my kitchen, I felt a sense of connection to my ancestors who had passed down this recipe through generations. The chicken simmered in the coconut milk, absorbing the rich flavors of turmeric, cumin, and coriander. I added a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro, and the dish was ready to be served.

As I took my first bite of Chickennat, I was transported to a far-off land where the air was filled with the scent of spices and the sound of laughter. The dish was a symphony of flavors, each bite a delicious combination of savory and sweet.

Since that day, Chickennat has become a staple in my kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, each one falling in love with the dish just as I did. I have added my own touches to the recipe over the years, tweaking the spices and adjusting the cooking time to perfection.

I have also learned the history behind Chickennat, discovering that it originated in a small village in India, where my great-grandmother was born. The dish was traditionally served at weddings and other special occasions, a symbol of celebration and unity.

I like to imagine my great-grandmother preparing Chickennat in her own kitchen, surrounded by loved ones and laughter. I feel a sense of pride knowing that I am carrying on her legacy through this simple yet exquisite dish.

Every time I make Chickennat, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us closer to those we love. It is more than just a recipe; it is a piece of history, a story passed down through generations.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for a new recipe to try, I urge you to look to your own family history. You never know what delicious surprises you may uncover, just waiting to be shared and savored. And who knows, you may just discover your own version of Chickennat, a dish that will become a beloved tradition in your own home.