Benachin Cubes

Introduction to Benachin Cubes

Benachin, known as the "one-pot" dish, originates from West Africa, particularly popular in countries like Gambia and Senegal. Benachin literally means "one pot" in the Wolof language, indicating the method of cooking all ingredients together in one pot. Historically, this dish has been cherished for its rich flavors and the convenience it offers.

The adaptation of Benachin into cubes is a modern twist meant for easy serving and portion control. This dish captures the essence of traditional Benachin while presenting it in an innovative, compact form perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Ingredients for Benachin Cubes

• Rice - 2 cups
• Chicken breast - 500 grams
• Tomatoes - 4 large
• Onions - 2 medium
• Carrots - 2 large
• Bell pepper - 1 large
• Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Bay leaves - 2
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Chili powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Ginger - 1-inch piece
• Chicken stock - 4 cups

Steps to Prepare Benachin Cubes

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping onions and garlic. Peel and dice the carrots, along with the bell pepper. Grate the ginger and set all these aside for later use.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and black pepper. Cook until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 3: Making the Base Sauce

In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and cook until the mixture thickens.

Stir in the carrots and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the pot, add rice, and mix well to coat the rice in the sauce. Pour in chicken stock, and add bay leaves, thyme, and chili powder. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Cooking the Dish

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Use a timer for precise timing.

Step 6: Molding the Benachin Cubes

Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Transfer it into a pre-greased cube mold or ice cube tray, pressing down firmly to pack it tightly. Let it cool completely in the refrigerator for several hours to set.

How to Enjoy Benachin Cubes

Carefully remove the Benachin cubes from the molds. Serve them as an appetizer, main meal, or as part of a buffet spread. These cubes can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature. They pair well with a fresh salad, spicy dip, or yogurt sauce. The compact form makes them ideal for packed lunches or as a quick snack. Benachin cubes are perfect for catering events or parties, providing a flavorful bite-sized experience that guests will love.

Final Tips

Ensure the rice is not overcooked for easy molding. Experiment with different vegetables or proteins like shrimp or beef to suit your preference. Make a larger batch and freeze for use up to a month. Enjoy the convenience and rich taste of these Benachin cubes anytime!