Chicken stews, often overshadowed by robust beef versions, sing praises of chicken’s tender adaptability. In our quest for unique flavors, we discovered the chicken in nutty infusion, inspired by Jamie Oliver’s vibrant Ghanaian Chicken Stew. Adapted to tantalize our taste buds, we’ve opted for simplicity, omitting okra.
A fusion of the rich flavors of tomato and paprika, accentuated with creamy peanut butter, this stew promises to surprise and delight in equal measure. Peanut butter might raise a few eyebrows, but trust me, its nutty essence impeccably complements the stew’s zest. Although I opted for wings and drumsticks, incorporating thighs would be a sheer delight. Jamie’s original beckons for a whole chicken; however, the choice is truly yours.
Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Feast
- Chicken ensemble (around 3 pounds): drumsticks, thighs, wings
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Seasoning mix: 2 tsp each of ground coriander and smoked paprika, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, salt and pepper to taste
- 2 thinly-sliced onions
- 1 chunky diced eggplant
- A pinch (about 1/2 tsp) of red pepper flakes
- Rich add-ins: 2 tbsp tomato paste, 3 freshly chopped tomatoes
- 3 cups of savory chicken broth
- The star: 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- Garnish: Roasted peanuts and a hint of cilantro (if you fancy)
Crafting Your Nutty Chicken Delight
- Begin by generously marinating the chicken in olive oil and the seasoning mix. Let it rest and soak up the flavors for a couple of hours, or even better, overnight.
- Kickstart your cooking by roasting the chicken at 400 degrees F for 45 minutes. Parallelly, in a capacious skillet or dutch oven, drizzle some olive oil. Introduce the onions, eggplant, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Saute until the mix turns tender. This is the moment to stir in the tomato paste, fresh tomatoes, chicken broth, and your golden roasted chicken.
- With everything in, let the pot bubble and then simmer for a good 30 minutes. The finishing touch? Swirl in the peanut butter and let it simmer for another half-hour. Before you serve, sprinkle those crunchy peanuts and a dash of cilantro, preferably alongside a bowl of steamy rice.
Health Bonus:
Not only does this dish offer a rich palette of flavors, but it also provides a myriad of health benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein which aids in muscle growth. Peanuts, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and good fats which are heart-healthy. So, this dish isn’t just about tantalizing taste buds but also about nourishing your body. Enjoy your meal knowing you’re feeding both your soul and physique!