Kedjenou

Kedjenou Recipe from Ivory Coast: A Delicious Chicken and Vegetable Dish

Region / culture: Ivory Coast | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kedjenou is a traditional Ivorian dish that is slow-cooked in an earthenware jar, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken and vegetables. This dish is popular in West Africa and is often served at special occasions and gatherings.

History

Kedjenou has its origins in the Baoulé tribe of Ivory Coast. The dish is traditionally cooked in a sealed earthenware jar, which allows the ingredients to cook in their own juices, resulting in a rich and flavorful stew.

Ingredients

1.5 kg (3.5 lb) chicken
1 eggplant
2 large onions
2 fresh red or green hot peppers
4 tomatoes
1 small piece ginger root
1 sprig thyme
1 bay leaf
salt

How to prepare

Clean the chicken and cut it into pieces.
Place the chicken pieces in an earthenware jar along with the eggplant, onions, peppers, tomatoes, ginger root, thyme, and bay leaf.
Season with salt to taste.
Seal the jar tightly by tying a banana leaf around the collar to prevent air from escaping and to avoid the need for adding water during cooking.
Place the jar on hot coals and cook for approximately 45 minutes.
Every 5 minutes during cooking, lift the jar and vigorously shake it to prevent the contents from sticking to the bottom.

Variations

Add okra or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of meat such as beef or fish instead of chicken.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the jar tightly with a banana leaf to prevent air from escaping and to keep the dish moist.

- Shake the jar every 5 minutes during cooking to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom.

- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Kedjenou is traditionally served with steamed rice or fufu, a starchy side dish made from cassava or yams.

Cooking Techniques

Slow-cooking in an earthenware jar is the traditional cooking technique for Kedjenou. This method allows the ingredients to cook in their own juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute chicken with beef, fish, or tofu for a different variation of Kedjenou.

Make Ahead Tips

Kedjenou can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as the dish sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kedjenou in the earthenware jar for a rustic and authentic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Kedjenou pairs well with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Kedjenou is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

Kedjenou may contain allergens such as eggplant and peppers. Please check for any specific allergens before consuming.

Summary

Kedjenou is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Kedjenou is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for special occasions or gatherings. Slow-cooked in an earthenware jar, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich and aromatic flavors.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Kedjenou. It was many years ago, during a visit to the bustling markets of Abidjan, Ivory Coast. I was drawn to the vibrant colors and the tantalizing aromas that filled the air. As I meandered through the crowded stalls, I stumbled upon a small, unassuming vendor selling an array of spices and herbs. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with the elderly woman, who spoke passionately about her love for cooking and her collection of traditional recipes passed down through generations.

She handed me a faded, dog-eared piece of paper, on which was written the recipe for Kedjenou. I had never heard of this dish before, but as I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and a medley of aromatic spices seemed like a match made in culinary heaven.

With a newfound sense of determination, I purchased the necessary ingredients and set out to recreate this exotic dish in my own kitchen. As I chopped, sautéed, and simmered, the intoxicating scents of cumin, coriander, and ginger wafted through the air, transporting me back to the bustling markets of Abidjan.

After hours of patient cooking, the Kedjenou was finally ready. I eagerly spooned a generous helping onto my plate and took my first bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue in a symphony of savory and spicy notes, each more delicious than the last. I knew then that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my technique for making Kedjenou, adding my own personal touches and adjustments along the way. I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all marveled at its unique and exotic flavors. Each time I prepare this dish, I am transported back to that fateful day in the markets of Abidjan, where I first discovered the magic of Kedjenou.

As I have grown older, I have come to realize that cooking is not just about following a set of instructions, but about infusing each dish with love, passion, and a pinch of nostalgia. The recipe for Kedjenou has become a symbol of my culinary journey, a tangible reminder of the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that have shaped my love for food.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a taste of the exotic, I urge you to give Kedjenou a try. Let its bold flavors and intoxicating aromas transport you to faraway lands and fill your kitchen with the magic of traditional African cuisine. I promise you won't be disappointed. Bon appétit!