Ghanaian-inspired Chicken Soup with Peanut and Plantain

Ingredients

In this Ghanaian adaptation, the traditional sour cream used in Ciorba Radauteana is replaced with groundnuts, which adds a distinct nutty flavor to the soup. Additionally, ripe plantains are added to provide a touch of sweetness and a unique texture to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ciorba Radauteana, so you can check it out.

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs) 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup groundnuts (peanuts), finely ground 1 cup groundnuts (peanuts), finely ground
• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth (950 ml) 4 cups chicken broth (950 ml)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 8g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix the groundnuts with the ginger, coriander, cumin, and paprika. Add this mixture to the pot and stir well to coat the chicken.
4. 4.
   Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. 5.
   Add the sliced plantains to the pot and continue simmering for an additional 10 minutes, or until the plantains are soft.
6. 6.
   Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Groundnuts — Make sure to finely grind the groundnuts to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency in the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• If plantains are not available, you can substitute them with ripe bananas for a slightly different flavor.
• To enhance the nutty taste, lightly toast the groundnuts before grinding them.
• Serve the soup with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve the Ghanaian-inspired Chicken Soup with Peanut and Plantain hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls to enhance the cozy and comforting feel of the dish.