Togolese Spicy Peanut Chicken

Ingredients

In the original Chinese dish, Taibai ji, the chicken is typically stir-fried with vegetables and soy sauce. However, in this Togolese adaptation, the chicken is marinated in a blend of Togolese spices and simmered in a peanut sauce. The flavors are bolder and spicier, and the peanut sauce adds a creamy and nutty element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Taibai ji, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, grated 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 200g (7 oz) unsalted peanuts, finely ground 200g (7 oz) unsalted peanuts, finely ground
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, ground peanuts, chicken broth, chili powder, paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. 5.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh cilantro.
6. 6.
   Serve the Togolese Spicy Peanut Chicken hot with steamed rice or fufu.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Peanuts — Make sure to finely grind the peanuts to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the pot and simmer until the sauce thickens.
• Serve the Togolese Spicy Peanut Chicken with a side of sliced fresh vegetables for added freshness and crunch.

Serving advice

Serve the Togolese Spicy Peanut Chicken with steamed rice or fufu for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Togolese Spicy Peanut Chicken in a large serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the chicken and sauce to shine. Sprinkle some chopped peanuts and cilantro on top for an appealing garnish.