Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds

Egyptian Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds Recipe

Region / culture: Egypt | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with sweet dates and crunchy almonds. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Middle Eastern flavors and cooking techniques. The combination of spices like cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and turmeric, along with the sweetness of dates and the crunch of almonds, creates a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

3.5 lb (1.59 kg) of chicken parts
3 tbsp of flour
2 tbsp of olive oil
1 large onion, halved and cut into 0.25 inch slices
1.5 tsp of McCormickŽ ground cinnamon
1 tsp of McCormickŽ ground cumin
0.5 tsp of McCormickŽ ground ginger
0.5 tsp of McCormickŽ turmeric
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) of chicken broth
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.5 tsp of salt
1 cup of pitted and quartered dates (about 6 oz (170 g))
0.33 cup of whole blanched almonds

How to prepare

1. Coat the chicken with flour. Heat oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add half of the chicken and brown for about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet. Repeat the browning step with the remaining chicken, adding onion. Return all the chicken to the skillet.
2. Combine cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and turmeric in a small bowl; add to the chicken. Stir to evenly coat the chicken and onions with spices; sauté for 1–2 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, lemon juice, and salt; bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in dates and almonds and cook, covered, for 20 minutes. Uncover and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Variations

Substitute dried apricots or prunes for the dates for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of saffron for a more luxurious and aromatic dish.
Use bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken before braising to add flavor and color to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Be sure to stir the dish occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish over cooked couscous or rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Braising is a cooking technique that involves browning meat and then simmering it in a flavorful liquid until tender. This method helps to infuse the meat with the flavors of the spices and other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken parts for a quicker cooking time.

- Use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish 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

Serve this dish in a large serving platter and garnish with additional almonds and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal. A glass of white wine or a fruity red wine would also complement the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, with the dates providing natural sweetness and fiber.

Fats

The olive oil in this recipe adds healthy fats to the dish, while the almonds provide additional healthy fats and crunch.

Proteins

Chicken is a lean source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and various minerals from the spices and almonds.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and gluten (from the flour used to coat the chicken), so it may not be suitable for those with nut or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced and nutritious meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with sweet dates and crunchy almonds. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in, and is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds. The combination of flavors and ingredients seemed so unique and intriguing to me. It was during one of my trips to Morocco, many years ago, that I had the opportunity to learn how to make this delicious dish.

I was staying with a dear friend who had invited me to join her in the kitchen while she prepared a traditional Moroccan feast for her family. As she busily chopped and stirred, I watched in awe as she effortlessly created one mouthwatering dish after another.

When she started preparing the Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds, I was immediately drawn to the warm and aromatic spices she used. Cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and saffron filled the air with their intoxicating scents, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As she added the chicken, dates, and almonds to the pot, I couldn't help but ask her about the origin of this recipe. She smiled warmly and began to tell me the story of how she had learned to make it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations.

Her grandmother had learned the recipe from a dear friend who had traveled to Morocco and brought back the spices and ingredients needed to make this dish. Over time, it had become a family favorite, cherished for its rich flavors and comforting aroma.

I was fascinated by the history and tradition behind this recipe, and my friend graciously offered to teach me how to make it myself. As we cooked together, she shared her grandmother's tips and tricks, explaining the importance of searing the chicken to lock in the flavors and simmering it slowly to allow the spices to meld together.

I watched closely as she seasoned the dish with a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors, adjusting the spices until it reached the perfect harmony. The addition of dates and almonds added a delightful sweetness and crunch, complementing the tender chicken perfectly.

As we sat down to enjoy the meal with her family, I marveled at how a simple recipe could hold so much history and tradition within its delicious depths. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, transporting me to the bustling markets of Morocco, with their vibrant colors and intoxicating scents.

From that day on, Spice Braised Chicken with Dates and Almonds became a staple in my own kitchen. I shared the recipe with my own family, passing down the tradition of this beloved dish to future generations.

Whenever I make it, I am reminded of that magical day in Morocco, where I first learned the secrets of this timeless recipe. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, connecting me to a world of flavors and memories that will forever hold a special place in my heart.