West African Spiced Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Tsukune yakitori is typically made with a soy-based marinade and grilled over charcoal, this West African adaptation incorporates a unique blend of spices and flavors. The use of ground peanuts in the marinade adds a rich nuttiness, while the addition of cayenne pepper and other West African spices infuses the dish with a delightful heat. The grilling technique remains the same, but the flavor profile is distinctly West African. We alse have the original recipe for Tsukune yakitori, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup (120g) ground peanuts 1/2 cup (120g) ground peanuts
• 2 tablespoons ginger paste 2 tablespoons ginger paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic paste 2 tablespoons garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the ground peanuts, ginger paste, garlic paste, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, salt, and vegetable oil.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well, ensuring each piece is coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
5. 5.
   Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground peanuts — If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute almond flour or sunflower seed flour for a similar nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
• For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle additional cayenne pepper on the skewers before grilling.
• Serve the skewers with a side of spicy peanut sauce for dipping.

Serving advice

Serve the West African spiced chicken skewers hot off the grill as a main course. They pair perfectly with a side of jollof rice and a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of ground peanuts. Serve with a wedge of lemon for squeezing over the chicken.