Malian-Inspired Bro' Brusà

Ingredients

In this Malian-inspired adaptation, the traditional Italian-American Bro' Brusà is transformed by incorporating the flavors and ingredients of Malian cuisine. The original dish typically features a tomato-based sauce, while the Malian version highlights a peanut sauce. Additionally, the use of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and ginger adds a distinct Malian touch to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Bro’ brusà, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder (optional, for heat) 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) smooth peanut butter 1 cup (240ml) smooth peanut butter
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach leaves 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked rice or couscous, for serving Cooked rice or couscous, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground ginger, paprika, and chili powder (if using) to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter and a ladleful of the hot broth from the pot until smooth. This will prevent the peanut butter from clumping when added to the stew.
6. 6.
   Add the peanut butter mixture to the pot, stirring well to incorporate it into the broth.
7. 7.
   Add the sliced carrots and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
8. 8.
   Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for a few more minutes until wilted.
9. 9.
   Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
10. 10.
    Serve the Malian-Inspired Bro' Brusà over cooked rice or couscous. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Peanut butter — Make sure to use smooth peanut butter without any added sugar or salt for the best results. Natural peanut butter works well too.
• Chicken thighs — Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe as they remain tender and flavorful during the cooking process.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more chicken broth if desired.
• Feel free to customize the vegetable selection based on personal preference or seasonal availability.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for future meals.
• Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Malian-Inspired Bro' Brusà in deep bowls over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. Provide spoons for scooping up the delicious peanut sauce and encourage guests to savor each bite.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top of the stew just before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the dish. Serve the stew in colorful ceramic bowls or on rustic wooden plates to create an inviting and visually pleasing presentation.