Craving a vibrant and flavorful dish bursting with West African charm? Then look no further than this simple yet incredibly delicious Chicken Okra Stew, a Ghanaian staple that's easy to make and guaranteed to impress. This recipe captures the essence of authentic Ghanaian cooking, blending tender chicken, succulent okra, and a rich blend of spices for a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times – this version is designed for busy weeknights, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
The perfect balance of savory and slightly tangy, this Chicken Okra Stew is a complete meal in itself, serving as a hearty main course alongside fluffy rice, fufu, or even crusty bread. Ready to experience the magic of this West African classic? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process to create your own perfect bowl of Chicken Okra Stew.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Ginger powder
- Garlic salt
- Natural spice mix
- Chicken seasoning
- Onions
- Okra
- Water
- Palm oil
- Habano pepper
- Red bell pepper
- Green bell pepper (optional)
- Tomatoes (optional)
- Baking soda (pinch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
- Clean chicken and add ginger powder, garlic salt, natural spice mix, chicken seasoning, and chopped onions. Stir until well combined, cover, and let it cook in its own juices or steam.
- Chop onions, habanero pepper, and red bell pepper (green bell pepper optional). Tomatoes are optional but will reduce the sliminess.
- Check chicken for tenderness. Add water if needed. Set aside.
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables and Build the Stew Base
- In the same pot, add palm oil, sliced onions, and fry for 5 minutes.
- Add chopped vegetables, stir, cover and cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Add chicken stock, stir, cover, and cook for another 8 minutes.
Step 3. Cook the Okra Separately
- Cut okra into desired size. I prefer small pieces.
- Section okra into portions, freeze extra for later use. Ensure airtight packaging to prevent freezer burn.
- Add okra, ginger, hot water, and a pinch of baking soda. Bring to a boil.
Step 4. Combine and Finish the Stew
- Add cooked chicken to the stew, stir, and continue cooking.
- Add green bell peppers (optional) for extra flavor.
- Add boiled okra to the stew, bring to a boil, then simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Ethiopian Butternut Squash Stew Recipe: A Vegan Delight
Tips
- Add water to the chicken if it's not already moist.
- Don't overcook okra; it will lose nutrients.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen okra in this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the stew to prevent it from becoming slimy.
2. What can I substitute for chicken?
You can easily substitute with beef, goat meat, or even shrimp for a delicious variation. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
This simple Chicken Okra Stew recipe is a testament to the beauty of straightforward cooking, delivering big on flavor without sacrificing ease. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and vibrant taste of this West African classic, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Now go ahead and create your own delicious culinary adventure!