Chicken Mafé, a vibrant and flavorful West African stew, is a culinary journey to Senegal. This rich and creamy dish boasts a complex tapestry of savory and sweet notes, achieved through a masterful blend of peanuts, tomatoes, onions, and warming spices. The intoxicating aroma alone is enough to transport you to bustling Senegalese markets, where the freshest ingredients are the heart of every meal. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a luscious peanut butter sauce, infused with the subtle heat of chili and the aromatic depth of ginger and garlic. The result is a comforting yet sophisticated meal, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Beyond its incredible taste, Chicken Mafé is surprisingly simple to prepare. This recipe breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps, guiding you through each stage from prepping the ingredients to achieving the perfect velvety texture. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and savor the authentic flavors of Senegal? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Pot
- Frying Pan
Ingredients
- Onions
- Spring onions
- Red bell pepper
- Tomatoes
- Rosemary
- Chicken
- Oil
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Concentrated tomato paste
- Peanut butter
- Thyme
- Red chili powder
- Black pepper powder
- Cumin powder
- Maggi cubes
- Fish sauce
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauté Aromatics
- Slice onions.
- Roughly chop spring onions, red bell pepper, tomatoes, and rosemary. Blend these ingredients together (may need to blend in batches).
- Add ginger-garlic paste and concentrated tomato paste to the pot.
- Add the blended spring onion mixture. Cook until the raw smell disappears.
Step 2. Build the Sauce and Braise the Chicken
- Sear chicken in oil until sealed.
- Add peanut butter, thyme, red chili powder, black pepper powder, cumin powder, and Maggi cubes.
- Add the seared chicken to the pot and mix well.
- Pour in water and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
Step 3. Simmer and Season
- Add fish sauce to taste.
- Let it cook until the oil separates (this is normal).
Read more: Easy Beef Stew Recipe: Delicious & Simple Indian-Spiced Stew
Tips
- If the bottom of your pan is slightly burnt after searing the chicken, don't worry; it will deglaze when you add more liquids.
- Maggi cubes contain a lot of salt, so adjust accordingly.
- Traditionally, crayfish powder is used; fish sauce is a suitable substitute.
- Using chicken with skin will add more flavor; skinless chicken is also an option.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 35-45g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of nuts instead of peanuts?
While peanuts are traditional, you can experiment! Cashews or almonds can create a similar creamy texture, but the flavor profile will be different. Start with a smaller amount to avoid overpowering the other spices.
2. How can I make the Mafé spicier or milder?
For spicier Mafé, add more chili powder or a chopped fresh chili pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. You can also adjust the amount of cayenne pepper.
This Senegalese Chicken Mafé recipe offers a delicious and satisfying culinary experience, transporting you to the vibrant flavors of West Africa with each bite. From its rich peanut butter sauce to its tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the rewarding taste of homemade Mafé and the pride of mastering this authentic recipe!