Areeka-inspired Toronto Delight

Ingredients

While the original Areeka dish from Sudan is typically made with lamb, this adapted recipe uses chicken as the protein of choice. Additionally, the tomato-based sauce in the Toronto version incorporates a variety of spices and flavors commonly found in Toronto's multicultural cuisine, adding a unique twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Areeka, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked rice, to serve Cooked rice, to serve

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, chili powder, turmeric, and cinnamon. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and stir well to coat.
4. 4.
   Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. 6.
   Serve the Areeka-inspired Toronto Delight over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken thighs — For a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breast tends to be drier, so be careful not to overcook it.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra kick of heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• For a more aromatic flavor, toast the ground cumin and coriander in a dry skillet before adding them to the dish.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the dish uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.

Serving advice

Serve the Areeka-inspired Toronto Delight with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to add a refreshing element to the meal. The dish pairs well with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added tanginess.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Areeka-inspired Toronto Delight with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Serve it in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant tomato-based sauce to shine.