Gadazelili Khveli with a Twist: Ecuadorian Style

Ingredients

In this Ecuadorian adaptation, the traditional Georgian spices are replaced with Ecuadorian spices like achiote, cumin, and cilantro. Additionally, plantains and yuca are added to the dish to incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Ecuadorian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Gadazelili khveli, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces 500g (1.1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste 2 tablespoons achiote paste
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 2 plantains, peeled and sliced 2 plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 yuca, peeled and cut into chunks 1 yuca, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking Vegetable oil for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chicken, achiote paste, cumin, dried oregano, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes.
4. 4.
   Add the sliced plantains and yuca to the pot. Cook for an additional 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the plantains and yuca are tender.
5. 5.
   Stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Serve the Gadazelili Khveli Ecuadorian style hot with rice or bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Make sure to use ripe plantains for a slightly sweet flavor. If you can't find plantains, you can substitute with ripe bananas.
• Yuca — Boil the yuca chunks until they are fork-tender before adding them to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a chopped chili pepper along with the garlic and onion.
• Serve with a side of Ecuadorian-style rice for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Gadazelili Khveli is best served hot, straight from the pot. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Gadazelili Khveli in a large serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the chicken, plantains, and yuca to shine through. Sprinkle some additional chopped cilantro on top for an appealing touch.