East African Kuku Paka

Kuku Paka is a sumptuous dish hailing from East Africa, specifically among Swahili communities. This dish embodies the vibrant flavors of tropical cuisine, showcasing tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce, infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, Kuku Paka is a celebration of culinary heritage and a delightful way to explore new tastes in your kitchen.

Discover the tropical flavors of Kuku Paka, a traditional East African dish from Swahili culture that features tender chicken simmered in rich coconut milk and aromatic spices. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, this culinary gem not only tantalizes taste buds but also embodies a sense of community. Explore the ingredients and cooking steps to create this delightful meal, and share an experience steeped in cultural heritage. #KukuPaka #EastAfricanCuisine #CoconutChicken #TropicalFlavors #Foodie #CulinaryTraditions

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Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

1 large onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust for spice level)

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 lime or lemon, juiced

Salt to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with lime/lemon juice, turmeric powder, cumin, coriander, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then, stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chilies, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Coconut Milk: Pour the coconut milk into the pot, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Cook: Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.

Finish with Garam Masala: Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the garam masala over the top, stirring it in gently. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with rice or chapati. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of Kuku Paka!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings