Johannesburg Gold

Introduction

Johannesburg Gold is a vibrant and flavorful dish that found its roots in the bustling city of Johannesburg, South Africa. This dish, a harmonious fusion of traditional South African flavors and modern culinary techniques, represents the city's rich cultural tapestry. It is often prepared during celebratory gatherings and is a symbol of the area's wealth of resources and diversity.

The essence of Johannesburg Gold lies in its use of locally sourced spices and ingredients, which are meticulously combined to create a dish full of warmth and depth. Over the years, it has gained popularity among chefs and food enthusiasts, making it a staple in both local and international culinary scenes.

Ingredients

• Saffron
• Chicken (whole, about 1.5 kg)
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (fresh, 1 tablespoon grated)
• Turmeric (1 teaspoon)
• Coriander (ground, 1 tablespoon)
• Cumin (ground, 1 teaspoon)
• Cinnamon (stick)
• Bay leaf (2 leaves)
• Cardamom (4 pods)
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Tomato (2 medium, diced)
• Coconut milk (400 ml)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
• Basmati rice (2 cups)
• Water (4 cups)
• Cilantro (fresh, for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Wash the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into serving pieces. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Create the Spice Mix

In a small bowl, combine the turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, and chili powder. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Aromatics

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and fry the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until aromatic.

Cooking Process

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot, and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In the same pot, add the spice mix and cook for about a minute. Add the tomatoes and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and add the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Simmer the Dish

Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and let it simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Use a cooking timer for accuracy.

Step 7: Cook the Rice

While the chicken simmers, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil, add the rice, cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once the chicken is done, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Add the lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken curry over the basmati rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. Johannesburg Gold pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad.

For a true Johannesburg experience, enjoy this meal with friends and family, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and flavors of South Africa.