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Moambe Chicken

Savory Moambe Chicken: A Taste of Africa at Home

Moambe Chicken is a celebrated Congolese delight that combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce of peanut butter and palm oil, perfect for any festive occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Congolese
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 8 pieces Chicken Drumsticks The star of the dish, lending a juicy and tender quality.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Sauce
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; shallots work as a substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Opt for fresh garlic for the best taste.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Forms the sauce base, introducing acidity.
  • 1/2 cup Peanut Butter Brings creaminess and richness.
  • 1/4 cup Palm Oil Known for its unique flavor; can substitute with olive oil.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust for heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Bouillon Powder Boosts savory flavors; use vegetable or chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Delivers a smoky depth.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Moambe Chicken
  1. Prepare the Chicken: Wash the chicken drumsticks thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat about 2 tablespoons of palm oil over medium-high heat, add chicken drumsticks, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Remove chicken and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce, cayenne pepper, bouillon powder, smoked paprika, and salt, stirring to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Simmer with Chicken: Return chicken to the pan, increase heat to a gentle boil, then lower heat and cover to simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Incorporate Peanut Butter: Remove chicken and stir in peanut butter until well blended.
  7. Final Cooking: Return chicken to skillet, coating with sauce, cover, and simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients, and adjust flavors according to your taste preference. Moambe Chicken is best served warm and can be paired with sides like steamed rice or boiled yams.

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