Ankara Sunburst

Introduction to Ankara Sunburst

Ankara Sunburst is a delightful fusion dish that blends traditional West African flavors with modern culinary techniques. The dish is named after the vibrant colors and flavors that reflect the bustling city of Ankara, the capital of Turkey. This recipe is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of the region, incorporating influences from various cultures that have shaped Ankara’s history.

Ingredients

• Chicken - 500g, boneless and skinless
• Turmeric - 1 teaspoon
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, freshly grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Red Bell Pepper - 1, chopped
• Green Bell Pepper - 1, chopped
• Onion - 1 large, diced
• Tomato Paste - 2 tablespoons
• Coconut Milk - 400ml
• Rice - 1 cup, preferably basmati
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Coriander - for garnish

Preparation Steps

Marinating the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken pieces. In a bowl, mix the turmeric, ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well coated with the marinade. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, chop the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Keep them aside in separate bowls as they will be sautéed at different stages.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the onion until translucent. Then, add the red bell pepper and green bell pepper. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the peppers are soft.

Creating the Sauce

Add the tomato paste along with the cooked chicken into the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables. Slowly pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes on low heat until the sauce thickens.

Cooking the Rice

While the sauce is simmering, prepare the rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water and cook according to the package instructions or until tender.

Serving the Dish

To serve Ankara Sunburst, spoon a generous portion of rice onto a plate. Ladle the chicken and sauce mixture over the rice. Garnish with chopped coriander for added freshness and color.

How to Enjoy Ankara Sunburst

Ankara Sunburst is best enjoyed hot, as the flavors of the turmeric and ginger meld beautifully with the creamy coconut milk sauce. Pair this dish with a light salad or simply enjoy it on its own for a comforting and aromatic meal. Additionally, you can set a cooking timer to ensure each cooking step is executed perfectly.

Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Ankara Sunburst brings warmth and excitement to your dining table, making it a memorable experience for all who partake.