Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe (2024)

The Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe is a traditional dish from Zimbabwe that offers a delicious and hearty meal. This stew combines tender chicken pieces with an assortment of flavorful vegetables and spices. The recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

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Beyond its great taste, the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe also provides several health benefits. The chicken is a good source of lean protein, which helps in building and repairing muscles in our bodies. Additionally, the vegetables in the stew offer essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet. These nutrients support our overall well-being and keep our bodies functioning properly.

One of the key advantages of this stew is its inclusion of diverse vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and carrots. These vegetables bring in a range of vitamins and antioxidants, which can boost our immune system and help protect our bodies from harmful free radicals. Moreover, the spices used in the recipe, like garlic and ginger, not only enhance the taste but also come with their own health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

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The Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe is a versatile dish that can be served with various accompaniments like rice, couscous, or even bread. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful meal for the whole family to enjoy.

Overall, the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe is a wholesome and nourishing dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also contributes to your overall health. With its simple preparation and fantastic flavors, it’s no wonder this stew holds a special place in Zimbabwean cuisine and continues to be loved by people all around the world.

How To Make Our Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

1 1⁄2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut in serving pieces
1/2 cup oil
2 medium onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 green bell peppers, chopped
1/2 teaspoon thyme , dried
1 tablespoon parsley , dried
1 tablespoon paprika
¼ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon maggi granules
3 tomatoes , chopped
2 spring onions chopped
6 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
10 ounces frozen spinach (or 1/2 pound fresh)

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.

a. Add the chopped onions.
b. Cook until they become soft and translucent.

2. In the same pot, add the butter.

a. Stir in the crushed garlic.
b. Cook for a minute until the garlic releases its aroma.

3. Add the boneless chicken breast pieces to the pot.

a. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
b. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown on all sides.

4. Add the chopped green bell peppers to the pot.

a. Mix in dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, curry powder, and Maggi granules.
b. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables with the flavorful spices.

5. Toss in the chopped tomatoes and spring onions.

a. Cook everything together until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

6. Reduce the heat to low and add the creamy peanut butter to the pot.

a. Stir thoroughly to combine the peanut butter with the other ingredients, creating a rich and nutty base for the stew.

7. Add the thawed and drained frozen spinach or chopped fresh spinach to the stew.

a. Mix well to incorporate the spinach into the dish.

8. Let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

a. Allow all the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and infused with the delicious sauce.

9. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

10. Once the stew is fully cooked and the flavors have developed, it’s ready to be served.

Estimated Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed forthe Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

Large pot
Stirring spoon
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Serving dishes
Plates

Best Way to Store Leftovers From Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

a. Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
b. Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers to store the stew safely.
c. Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
d. Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours after cooking.
e. Consume the leftovers within 3-4 days for best taste and quality.
f. You can also freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for longer storage.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Marinate the chicken beforehand for enhanced flavor.
Use bone-in chicken pieces for richer taste and tenderness.
Pre-chop all the vegetables before starting to cook for efficiency.
Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Stir the peanut butter well before adding it to the stew for smoothness.
Double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals.

Side Dishes and Desserts Forthe Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

a. Steamed white rice
b. Fluffy couscous
c. Buttered naan bread
d. Mashed sweet potatoes
e. Sauteed garlic green beans
f. Fresh garden salad

How To Serve the Cuban Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

a. Ladle the stew into individual serving dishes.
b. Serve the stew with your choice of side dish.
c. Garnish with chopped parsley or spring onions for added freshness.
d. Place the hot serving dishes on the dining table.
e. Enjoy the hearty Zimbabwe Chicken Stew with your family and friends.
f. Store any leftovers following the leftover storage instructions.

Dietary Substitution For the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

1. Vegan Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Substitute boneless chicken with firm tofu or tempeh.
b. Replace butter with plant-based margarine or vegan butter.
c. Use vegetable oil instead of regular oil.
d. Swap Maggi granules with a vegan-friendly bouillon.
e. Use plant-based milk instead of creamy peanut butter.

2. Gluten-Free Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Ensure all ingredients, including spices, are gluten-free.
b. Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of Maggi granules.
c. Check that the peanut butter and vegetable oil are gluten-free.
d. Serve the stew with gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa.
e. Opt for gluten-free bread as a side dish instead of naan.

3. Vegetarian Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Replace boneless chicken with meatless chicken strips.
b. Use vegetable broth instead of Maggi granules.
c. Substitute butter with plant-based butter or olive oil.
d. Choose frozen or fresh vegetarian spinach.
e. Use vegetable oil instead of regular oil.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Incorporate olives and capers for a Mediterranean twist.
b. Use extra virgin olive oil instead of regular oil.
c. Serve the stew with a side of whole-grain couscous or quinoa.
d. Add artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes for depth of flavor.
e. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a Mediterranean touch.

5. Keto Diet Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Replace the peanut butter with almond butter.
b. Use avocado oil or ghee instead of regular oil.
c. Add low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower.
d. Opt for keto-friendly spices and seasonings.
e. Serve the stew with a side of cauliflower rice.

6. Heart Healthy Diet Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Use skinless chicken breasts for lower fat content.
b. Replace butter with olive oil for heart-healthy fats.
c. Choose reduced-sodium or salt-free spices.
d. Add extra garlic and herbs for natural flavor.
e. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrients.

7. Paleo Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Substitute peanut butter with almond butter.
b. Use coconut oil or ghee instead of regular oil.
c. Add extra vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots.
d. Choose paleo-friendly spices and seasonings.
e. Serve the stew with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

8. Low Carb Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Use cauliflower florets instead of frozen spinach.
b. Replace Maggi granules with a low-carb bouillon.
c. Opt for low-carb vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli.
d. Choose low-carb spices and seasonings.
e. Serve with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

9. Whole 30 Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Use compliant vegetable oil or ghee instead of regular oil.
b. Replace Maggi granules with whole 30 approved broth.
c. Use almond butter or compliant nut butter instead of peanut butter.
d. Choose whole 30 compliant vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes.
e. Serve with a side of cauliflower rice or sweet potato noodles.

10. Weight Watchers Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Use lean chicken breast to reduce points.
b. Replace butter with a low-point margarine or cooking spray.
c. Choose low-point vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes.
d. Use a low-point broth instead of Maggi granules.
e. Measure peanut butter carefully to control points.

11. Low Fat Options for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lower fat content.
b. Replace butter with a low-fat cooking spray or broth.
c. Use low-fat vegetable oil or omit it altogether.
d. Choose low-fat or fat-free creamy peanut butter.
e. Opt for low-fat vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes.

12. Vegetable Variations for the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe:

a. Create a vegetable stew by omitting chicken and using vegetable broth.
b. Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
c. Add more vegetables like carrots, celery, and mushrooms.
d. Use vegetable oil or olive oil for a plant-based twist.
e. Serve the stew with a side of mixed steamed vegetables.

Please note that the given substitutions are general suggestions, and individual dietary needs and preferences may vary. It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

FAQ About the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe

What is the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe?
The Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe is a traditional dish from Zimbabwe that combines tender chicken pieces with a flavorful blend of vegetables, spices, and creamy peanut butter, resulting in a hearty and delicious stew.

How do I make the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe?
To make the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, onions, garlic, green bell peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and a mix of aromatic spices like thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. The chicken is cooked with these ingredients and combined with creamy peanut butter to create a rich and tasty stew.

Can I make a vegan version of the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe by substituting the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and using plant-based butter and vegetable oil. Additionally, opt for vegetable broth instead of Maggi granules and choose plant-based milk instead of creamy peanut butter.

Is the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe gluten-free?
The Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe can be made gluten-free by ensuring that all the ingredients, including spices and peanut butter, are gluten-free. Serve the stew with gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa, and check that the chosen bouillon is gluten-free.

What are some possible side dishes to serve with the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe?
You can pair the Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe with various side dishes to complement its flavors. Some options include steamed white rice, fluffy couscous, buttered naan bread, mashed sweet potatoes, sauteed garlic green beans, and a fresh garden salad.

Final Thoughts

The Zimbabwe Chicken Stew Recipe is a beloved and traditional dish originating from Zimbabwe. This hearty stew features tender pieces of chicken cooked with an array of flavorful vegetables and aromatic spices, all combined with creamy peanut butter for a delightful taste. With its easy preparation, the recipe is accessible to home cooks of various skill levels. The stew’s versatility allows it to be paired with a variety of side dishes, making it an excellent choice for family meals or gatherings. Its rich and delicious flavors continue to delight people all around the world, making it a cherished addition to any dining table.