The mention of authentic African chicken cuisines brings an explosion of flavours to the taste buds. With a variety of cuisines served that defines the rich food history of this place, Africa can be a heaven for food lovers. From authentic dishes and recipes, this mother continent place has been flavouring the palate for ages.
The oldest inhabited continent boasts of cuisine for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food lovers. They can enjoy the relishing and aromatic food wrapped in the tradition of this human ancestral continent. The richness of its delicacies invites people from around the globe to get a taste of it.
Amongst the many cuisines that Africa offers, there are a few that drive your taste buds for wanting more with every bite.
A walk to the famous African cuisine:
1.Kuku wa kupaka:
Picture credits: Taste Atlas
The distinctive taste of Kuku wa kupaka can beat any delicacy with its flavour. People travel to this place especially, to get a taste of this world-famous food. Packed with the authentic Kenyan spices of the coastal region, it is a dish made of chicken cooked in the spicy, hearty sauce made from the fusion of coconut milk, tomato puree and flavourful spices such as turmeric, cumin, lime juice. Its distinguishing feature is that it contains layers of different flavour with a hint of tangy taste. The inclusion of herbs and vegetables enhance the flavour of this dish. Served hot with chappati, this delicacy is a treat for food lovers.
2.Kedjenou:
Picture credits: 196 Flavours
This slow cooked chicken stew recipe is a traditional delicacy of Ivory Coast. It is prepared using the conventional method of combining chicken pieces, tomatoes, egg plant, chilli peppers, onion, okra, garlic, thyme and chicken broth. These ingredients are combined and sealed in a clay pot known as canari in the region. The canari is then placed over hot coals, left to slow cook, while periodically shaking the pot so ingredients do not stick to the pot and the herbs mix well. The use of herbs and slow cooking makes this delicacy even more flavourful and aromatic. It is a healthy food that is generally served with white rice on the side.
3.Muamba de galinha:
Picture credits: Amazons Watch Magazine
Also referred to as Chicken Muamba, this dish is a rich delicacy made from chicken, garlic, gindungo; a variety of Angolan hot chile pepper and red palm oil sauce, famously known as muamba de dendem in the region. This dish has a distinctive red colour from lycopene, while the pam oil offers it a subtle yet specific flavour. Besides its aromatic flavour, the delicacy is also a haven for health benefits. Being rich in antioxidants, it prevents heart diseases, controls cholesterol and keeps one healthy.
4.Akoho sy voanio:
Picture credits: AfroGist Media
This traditional chicken dish is also known as poulet au coco has its origin in Madagascar. This flavourful dish is a combination of chicken pieces mixed in coconut milk for a smooth flavour, tomato puree, lemon juice, onion, garlic, ginger, cayenne pepper, seasonings like pepper and salt. Chicken is marinated in salt, pepper and lemon juice and then sauteed with garlic and onions to fuse the flavours.
5.Tajine zitoune:
Picture credits: Taste Atlas
This traditional Algerian delicacy is an explosion of flavours and richness of health amalgamated in one mouthful. Tajine zitoune is a combination of chicken pieces mixed in vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, onions, olives with herbs of the likes of bay leaves, thyme and finally a hint of lemon juice, turmeric and saffron. This tender meat dish is garnished with cilantro to add a more authentic touch and is served on the side of saffron rice to allow it to fill in all the traditional flavours.
Even though the African food can be prepared at the comfort of your home, eating it in an authentic African restaurant or while on your next trip to the continent will be an experience in itself.