Ugandan Peanut Butter Chicken Wrapped in Banana Leaves
Embark on a culinary journey to East Africa with this exquisite Ugandan Peanut Butter Chicken Wrapped in Banana Leaves. This dish captures the essence of Ugandan cuisine, blending tender chicken with the creamy richness of ground peanuts, all enveloped in the natural aroma of banana leaves. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a special dinner for two, and a dish that celebrates the richness and tradition of Ugandan culture. Ideal for those with an adventurous palate, this recipe invites you to explore a taste of East Africa in the comfort of your home, with a touch of gourmet sophistication that is sure to impress.
Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert
Preparation Time: 20 minutes, Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 300 grams of chicken, diced
- 100 grams of ground peanuts (peanut butter)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 banana leaves
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of coriander
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 100 ml of water
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until the onions are translucent.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until the chicken is browned.
- Stir in the tomatoes, ground peanuts, salt, black pepper, turmeric, coriander, and chili powder. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in the water and allow the mixture to simmer until the chicken is fully cooked, and the sauce has thickened.
- Lay the banana leaves on a flat surface and divide the chicken mixture between the leaves.
- Fold the banana leaves to enclose the mixture into parcels, securing with kitchen twine if necessary.
- Place the parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, allowing the banana leaves to impart a uniquely aromatic flavor.
- Remove from the oven and carefully open the banana leaves. Serve immediately, allowing the aromatic steam to entice your senses.
Tips
- For a more pronounced flavor, marinate the chicken in the ground peanuts and spices for an hour before cooking.
- Ensure banana leaves are clean and pliable before wrapping; this can be achieved by gently warming them over an open flame.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Element (per 100g) | Amount Per 100g | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200 | 400 |
| Energy (kJ) | 836 | 1672 |
| Fat | 14 grams | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 6 grams | 12 grams |
| Sugars | 2 grams | 4 grams |
| Proteins | 12 grams | 24 grams |
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