Togolese-inspired Spiced Rice with Chicken

Ingredients

In this Togolese adaptation, we incorporate Togolese spices and flavors to transform the traditional Japanese Tai-meshi into a unique and exciting dish. The addition of Togolese spices such as ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper infuses the dish with a distinctively spicy and aromatic profile. The marinade for the chicken incorporates Togolese spices and tangy lemon juice, adding a delightful twist to the original recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Tai-meshi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Togolese spice blend (made with ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper, and other spices) 1 tablespoon Togolese spice blend (made with ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper, and other spices)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, lemon juice, and Togolese spice blend. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. 5.
   Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
6. 6.
   Add the basmati rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice with the flavors.
7. 7.
   Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
9. 9.
   Serve the Togolese-inspired spiced rice with chicken garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Togolese spice blend — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Chicken thighs — For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken for a longer period, up to overnight.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or mixed vegetables.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Serve with a side of Togolese tomato and onion salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day as a delicious rice bowl with a fried egg on top.
• Experiment with different Togolese spice blends to create your own unique flavor profile.

Serving advice

Serve the Togolese-inspired spiced rice with chicken as a main course, accompanied by a side of Togolese tomato and onion salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Present the Togolese-inspired spiced rice with chicken in a large serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the rice and chicken to shine through. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an appealing finishing touch.