The Flavors of Ivory Coast: Ivorian Kedjenou
Hello foodies! Today, I'm excited to share with you a traditional Ivorian dish called Kedjenou. This authentic Ivorian recipe is a flavorful and aromatic chicken stew that originates from the Akan people of Ivory Coast. The name 'Kedjenou' refers to the method of cooking the dish, which is slow-cooked in a sealed pot with little to no added liquid, allowing the chicken to cook in its own juices along with a blend of delicious African spices.
This dish is popular in Ivory Coast and is often cooked for special occasions and gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, ripe tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and a special blend of local spices creates a unique and mouthwatering flavor profile that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Let's dive into the recipe for this delightful Ivorian Kedjenou:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 maggi cube (or chicken bouillon cube)
- 1 teaspoon ground red pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and ground red pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown on all sides.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until they begin to soften.
- Return the chicken to the pot and add the maggi cube. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Ivorian Kedjenou hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.
This Ivorian Kedjenou is a true taste of Ivory Coast and is perfect for sharing with friends and family. The rich flavors and tender chicken will transport you to the heart of West Africa with every bite. Enjoy creating this traditional Ivorian dish in your own kitchen!
Cheers,
Gemma