Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin
Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin Recipe - Authentic Middle Eastern Dish
Introduction
Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of spices and olive oil creates a delicious crust on the chicken, while keeping the meat juicy and tender. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
Yemenite cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. This roast chicken recipe is a traditional dish that has been passed down through generations in Yemeni households. The use of cumin in this recipe adds a warm and earthy flavor to the chicken, making it a popular choice for special occasions and holidays.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- This easy roast chicken is one of my favorite holiday main courses.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Trim off excess fat from the chicken. Mix together the salt, pepper, cumin, turmeric, and oil. Rub the chicken all over with the mixture.
- Set the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 1 to 1 hour, basting occasionally if desired. Pierce the thickest part of a leg with a skewer or sharp knife. When the juices run clear, the chicken is done.
- Carve the chicken and serve the pan juices separately, if desired.
Variations
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro to the spice mixture for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute the chicken with turkey or Cornish hens for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to rub the spice mixture all over the chicken for maximum flavor.
- Basting the chicken occasionally while roasting will help keep the meat moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature (165°F).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roast chicken with a side of couscous or rice.
- Add a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting the chicken at a high temperature helps to create a crispy skin and juicy meat.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken for individual servings.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the spice mixture and rub it on the chicken a day in advance. Keep the chicken covered in the refrigerator until ready to roast.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the roast chicken with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve the roast chicken with a side of hummus, pita bread, and pickled vegetables for a complete Middle Eastern meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
0g per serving
Fats
- Total Fat: 10g per serving
- Saturated Fat: 2g per serving
Proteins
- Protein: 40g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 4% DV
- Vitamin C: 2% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Alergens
This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
Summary
This Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin is a high-protein dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of iron and vitamin A.
Summary
Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of spices and olive oil creates a flavorful crust on the chicken, while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Serve this dish with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in Israel. My aunt was a fantastic cook, known throughout the family for her delicious and authentic Middle Eastern dishes. She had learned many of her recipes from her own mother, who had learned them from her mother before her. I was always in awe of the way my aunt could effortlessly whip up a feast from scratch, using only the freshest and most flavorful ingredients.
One day, as I sat in my aunt's kitchen watching her prepare dinner, she pulled out a yellowed and tattered recipe card from a box on the shelf. She explained to me that this recipe had been passed down through generations of our family, originating in Yemen where our ancestors had once lived. The recipe for Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin was a family treasure, she said, and she was going to teach me how to make it.
As my aunt guided me through the steps of preparing the dish, I watched in awe as she skillfully seasoned the chicken with a blend of aromatic spices, including cumin, turmeric, and paprika. She then seared the chicken in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and crispy, before transferring it to a roasting pan along with sliced onions, garlic, and potatoes. The scent of the spices filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation of the delicious meal to come.
As the chicken roasted in the oven, my aunt told me stories about our family's history in Yemen, and how this dish had been a staple at every festive gathering and holiday celebration. She spoke of the women in our family who had carefully preserved the recipe, passing it down from mother to daughter, ensuring that it would never be lost to time.
When the chicken was finally ready, my aunt pulled it out of the oven and placed it on the table, surrounded by fluffy couscous and a vibrant green salad. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.
With the first bite, I knew that this dish was something truly special. The tender and juicy chicken was bursting with flavor, infused with the warm and earthy notes of cumin and turmeric. The potatoes were soft and creamy, having absorbed all the delicious juices from the chicken as it roasted. It was a meal that warmed the soul and brought comfort to the heart, just like my aunt's stories of our family's past.
From that day on, Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin became a favorite in my own household. I would often make it for special occasions and family gatherings, passing on the recipe to my own children and grandchildren. Each time I made it, I would think back to that day in my aunt's kitchen, and remember the love and tradition that went into every bite.
Now, as I look back on my life and the many recipes that I have collected and cherished over the years, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe for Yemenite Roast Chicken with Cumin. It is a reminder of where I come from and the strong women who came before me, passing down their culinary wisdom and traditions from generation to generation. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share this dish with my loved ones, a piece of my family's history will live on forever.
Categories
| Chicken Recipes | Turmeric Recipes | Yemeni Meat Dishes | Yemeni Recipes |