Bringing together rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this Hearty Chicken Stew with Carrots draws from traditional Zimbabwean culinary roots. In Zimbabwe, meals are often a celebration of community, culture, and family. This stew is no exception—featuring succulent chicken and vibrant carrots, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or serving up at larger gatherings. The unique blend of spices and vegetables transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks work best)
- 3 large carrots, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (preferably red or yellow)
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water with chicken bouillon)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. When the oil is hot, add the chicken skin-side down and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Flip to brown the other side, then remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Stir frequently until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step lays the flavor foundation for your Hearty Chicken Stew with Carrots.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped bell pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices: Add the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, and turmeric powder to the pot. Mix everything well and allow it to simmer for another 3-4 minutes, letting the tomatoes break down slightly.
- Return the Chicken: Place the browned chicken pieces back into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let your stew simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process infuses the flavors and makes the chicken tender and juicy.
- Final Touches: After 45 minutes, check the seasoning of your stew. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Hearty Chicken Stew with Carrots into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander leaves. Pair it with crusty bread or traditional sadza (a Zimbabwean maize dish) for the ultimate comfort meal.
Cooking Tips
- Marinate the Chicken: For added flavor, consider marinating your chicken pieces in spices the night before.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary, which can add a delightful twist to your stew.
- Make it Ahead: This stew can be made ahead of time and gets even tastier the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
This Hearty Chicken Stew with Carrots is not only a satisfying dish but also an excellent candidate for sharing or selling. With its vibrant flavors and comforting qualities, it’s sure to be a hit in any setting. If you’re aspiring to turn your culinary skills into a business, consider exploring more dishes like this one and see how they can shine on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace.
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