Grilled Chicken with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Dajaj mashwi from Lebanese cuisine to Central African cuisine, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Central African cooking. The original dish is typically marinated in a blend of Lebanese spices and grilled, while the Central African version adds a spicy peanut sauce to enhance the flavors. The use of roasted peanuts, tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the sauce gives it a distinct Central African twist. We alse have the original recipe for Dajaj mashwi, so you can check it out.

• 4 chicken breasts (600g) 4 chicken breasts (600g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup roasted peanuts, unsalted 1 cup roasted peanuts, unsalted
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 9g, 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Rub the spice mixture onto the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
6. 6.
   Add the roasted peanuts, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, and chicken broth to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.
8. 8.
   Transfer the sauce to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
9. 9.
   Slice the grilled chicken breasts and serve them with the spicy peanut sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and keep it moist during grilling.
• Roasted peanuts — If you can't find roasted peanuts, you can roast raw peanuts in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until they turn golden brown. Let them cool before using in the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut sauce.
• Serve the grilled chicken with a side of steamed rice or couscous to complete the meal.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
• Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To add a refreshing element to the dish, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the grilled chicken before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Chicken with Spicy Peanut Sauce as the main course, accompanied by a side of steamed rice or couscous. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on a platter and drizzle the spicy peanut sauce over the top. Sprinkle some chopped peanuts and cilantro leaves as a final touch. Serve with a side of rice or couscous and a fresh salad for a complete and visually appealing presentation.