Dive into the heartwarming flavors of Nigerian Chicken and Plantain Pottage, a dish that beautifully combines succulent chicken, sweet ripe plantains, and a blend of aromatic spices. This hearty pottage is a staple in Nigerian cuisine, offering a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl per person
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fiber: 5 g
Ingredients
- Chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks): 600 g (1.3 lbs)
- Ripe plantains, peeled and chopped: 3
- Red palm oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml or 1 oz)
- Onion, chopped: 1 large
- Tomatoes, chopped: 2 large
- Red bell pepper, chopped: 1
- Garlic cloves, minced: 3
- Fresh ginger, grated: 2 tsp
- Chicken broth: 500 ml (17 oz)
- Spinach or kale, chopped: 2 cups (60 g or 2 oz)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Ground crayfish (optional): 1 tsp
Method of Preparation
- Brown the Chicken: In a large pot, heat palm oil. Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and bell pepper until soft.
- Cook the Pottage: Return the chicken to the pot. Add plantains, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and ground crayfish. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Add Greens: Stir in the spinach or kale, cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve: Adjust seasonings and serve warm.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use Ripe Plantains: Ripe plantains add a natural sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Palm Oil Substitute: If palm oil is unavailable, use vegetable oil.
- Consistency Adjustments: Add more broth if a thinner pottage is desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely, just thaw and drain before adding.