why make this recipe
Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew is a delicious and hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table. This stew is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and it offers a taste of Nigerian cuisine that is both satisfying and comforting. The use of spices and fresh ingredients creates a bold flavor that everyone will love.
how to make Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp ginger (minced)
- 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers (blended, adjust for spice preference)
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp curry powder
- salt (to taste)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
Directions:
- Wash and cut the chicken into pieces. Chop the onion, mince garlic and ginger, and blend the scotch bonnet peppers.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and ginger, and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in blended peppers, chopped tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook for 10 minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Season with thyme, curry powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add chicken pieces and coat well in the sauce. Let them brown slightly.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Add chopped bell pepper and carrots. Cook for 10 more minutes until vegetables are soft.
- Serve hot with rice, bread, or fufu.
how to serve Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew
Serve Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew hot, paired with white rice, bread, or fufu. You can add some extra scotch bonnet pepper on the side for those who like it spicier. A side of fresh salad can also balance the meal.
how to store Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew
To store leftover Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
tips to make Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew
- Adjust the number of scotch bonnet peppers based on your spice preference.
- You can use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
- Make sure to sauté the onions well to enhance the stew’s taste.
- For added richness, consider adding a few slices of smoked fish or shrimp.
variation
You can try this stew with different proteins, such as beef or goat meat. You can also add more vegetables like potatoes or green beans to give it a different touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this stew spicy without scotch bonnet peppers?
A: Yes, you can use other types of hot peppers, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Q: Is there a way to make this stew less spicy?
A: Absolutely! You can use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or substitute with milder peppers.
Q: Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. The flavors often deepen as it sits.
Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and cut the chicken into pieces.
- Chop the onion, mince garlic and ginger, and blend the scotch bonnet peppers.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and ginger, and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in blended peppers, chopped tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook for 10 minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Season with thyme, curry powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add chicken pieces and coat well in the sauce. Let them brown slightly.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Add chopped bell pepper and carrots. Cook for 10 more minutes until vegetables are soft.