Jasha Maroo

Jasha Maroo Recipe - Bhutanese Chicken Stew

Region / culture: Bhutan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Jasha Maroo is a traditional Bhutanese chicken stew that is bursting with flavor and spices. This dish is perfect for those looking to explore the unique and delicious flavors of Bhutanese cuisine.

History

Jasha Maroo has been a staple in Bhutanese cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs makes this dish a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

For the poultry/stew base

2 lb (907 g) chicken
4 tbsp vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, crushed
2 onions, sliced or minced
2 tomatoes, chopped
4 green chillies, cut into small pieces or (4.75 tbsp chilli powder)
1 tsp curry powder, optional
2 tsp salt

To garnish (optional)

fresh cicely
cilantro
1 cup peas
chili leaves

How to prepare

Cut the chicken into small pieces, approximately the size of peas. You can choose to remove or leave the bones. Place the chicken in a saucepan and add water and 4 tbsp of oil. Bring it to a boil.
Add garlic, salt, green chilies, tomatoes, curry powder (optional), and ginger according to your taste. Reduce the heat slightly and let it boil for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The dish should have some liquid when served hot. Serve it plain or with other dishes. If desired, garnish with cicely, cilantro, peas, and chili leaves.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of Jasha Maroo, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or paneer. You can also add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of Jasha Maroo, be sure to use fresh ingredients and spices. Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference. For a richer flavor, you can also add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Jasha Maroo can be served with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a delicious Jasha Maroo is to simmer the chicken slowly in the flavorful broth until it is tender and infused with all the spices and aromatics.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh green chilies, you can use dried red chilies or chili flakes as a substitute. You can also use ghee or butter instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Jasha Maroo can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Jasha Maroo with fresh cilantro, peas, and chili leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the stew in a decorative bowl for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Jasha Maroo pairs well with a side of steamed rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Jasha Maroo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Jasha Maroo contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Jasha Maroo is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The vegetable oil used in this recipe adds healthy fats to the dish, providing essential nutrients for overall health.

Proteins

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, making Jasha Maroo a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh garlic, onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. These ingredients provide essential nutrients for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Jasha Maroo is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to enjoy a taste of Bhutanese cuisine while also maintaining a balanced diet.

Summary

Jasha Maroo is a flavorful and aromatic chicken stew that is perfect for those looking to explore the unique flavors of Bhutanese cuisine. With a combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Jasha Maroo. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother in the garden. As I walked into the kitchen, I saw my grandmother busily chopping vegetables and stirring a pot on the stove. The delicious aroma of spices filled the air, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

My grandmother smiled and explained that she was making Jasha Maroo, a traditional Bhutanese dish that she had learned to make many years ago. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in our family, and that she had learned it from her own grandmother when she was a young girl. Intrigued, I asked her to teach me how to make it as well.

As she guided me through the process of preparing the dish, she shared stories of her own childhood and the different places she had lived. She told me about the time she spent in Bhutan, where she had first tasted Jasha Maroo and fallen in love with the flavors of the dish. She described the vibrant markets where she had bought fresh ingredients, and the bustling kitchens where she had watched skilled cooks prepare meals for their families.

With each step of the recipe, my grandmother shared tips and techniques that had been passed down to her from her own grandmother. She explained the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to sauté the spices just right. She showed me how to balance the flavors of the dish, adding a little more salt or a touch of chili powder to suit my own taste.

As we cooked together, I felt a deep connection to my grandmother and to the generations of women who had come before us. I realized that this recipe was more than just a dish – it was a link to our family's past, a way to honor our heritage and keep our traditions alive.

When the Jasha Maroo was finally ready, we sat down together at the table and savored each bite. The tender pieces of chicken, the fragrant spices, the rich broth – it was a feast for the senses. I could taste the love and history that had gone into making this dish, and I knew that it would always hold a special place in my heart.

Since that day, I have made Jasha Maroo many times, sharing it with friends and family and passing down the recipe to my own children. Each time I cook it, I am reminded of my grandmother and the lessons she taught me in the kitchen. And as I watch my own grandchildren learn to make the dish, I know that the tradition will continue for generations to come.

So whenever I make Jasha Maroo, I am not just following a recipe – I am honoring my grandmother, my family, and the rich tapestry of stories and flavors that make up our heritage. And with each delicious bite, I am grateful for the love and memories that this dish brings to my table.