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Umhlubulo Chicken

Umhlubulo Chicken is a savory, spice-infused dish featuring tender chicken slow-cooked with aromatic onions, tomatoes, and traditional spices, perfect for a hearty dinner.

Difficulty
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
Prep Time
45 min
Cost
Cost
Medium
Calories
400
Protein
35g
Sugar
5g
NEW

Umhlubulo Chicken

History and Background

Umhlubulo Chicken is a traditional dish originating from South Africa, known for its rich flavors and cultural significance. The dish is typically prepared during communal gatherings and celebrations, bringing people together around a shared meal. The name 'Umhlubulo' refers to a traditional practice of gathering, signifying the communal aspect of this meal. This chicken recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their unique twist, yet maintaining the core elements of the dish.

Ingredients

Preparation

Begin by preparing the chicken. Wash it thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel. Cut the chicken into pieces if not already done. Set aside.

Marination

In a large bowl, combine half of the garlic and ginger with paprika, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the lemon juice and mix into a paste. Rub this mixture generously onto the chicken pieces. Cover the bowl and allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Chopping Ingredients

While the chicken is marinating, chop the onions and dice the tomatoes. Set these aside for cooking.

Cooking Process

Sautéing

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent. Add the remaining garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, forming a thick sauce.

Cooking the Chicken

Once the base is ready, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and allow to simmer on low heat. Refer to this cooking timer to ensure the chicken simmers for approximately 30-40 minutes or until cooked through and tender, stirring occasionally.

Seasoning and Garnishing

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed. Once the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh coriander leaves on top as a garnish.

Serving Suggestions

Umhlubulo Chicken pairs excellently with steamed rice, warm flatbreads, or a fresh salad on the side. Serve hot and enjoy with friends and family during any gathering to honor the tradition of communal eating and storytelling.

Enjoying the Meal

This dish is best enjoyed as a part of a communal table, where stories and laughter are shared alongside the meal. Consider pairing it with traditional African beverages or a simple lemonade to complement its bold, rich flavors.

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