Chef’s Special: “Black Rice Chicken”

Do you like trying bold and exotic recipes? If the answer is yes, then you have to try this African-inspired “Black Rice Chicken” dish that’s perfect for the adventurous foodie!

This dish is as intriguing as it is delicious. Rich with nutrients and packed with flavour, this dish pairs spicy ground chicken with fragrant basmati and black rice. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

– 2 cups black rice
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of garlic
– 2 teaspoons of ginger
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– ½ teaspoon of hot red pepper
– ½ teaspoon of coriander
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
– 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 pounds of ground chicken
– ¼ cup of freshly chopped parsley
– ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro

Method

1. In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water and the 2 cups of black rice to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to a low simmer for 30-40 minutes.

2. Place a large saucepan on medium heat and add coconut oil.

3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, red pepper, coriander and cinnamon to the pan. Saute, stirring occasionally until the onions are softened.

4. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine.

5. Add the chicken broth and bring to a low simmer.

6. Add the ground chicken and stir gently until it is cooked through.

7. To finish, add the freshly chopped parsley and cilantro and stir.

8. Plate the cooked black rice and spoon the cooked ground chicken mixture over top.

Serve this mouth-watering meal with your favourite veggies for a complete, culturally-influenced, nutrient-rich meal.

For a different twist, you can also add couscous or quinoa instead of black rice. Or, if lamb or beef is more your taste, switch out the ground chicken for your protein of preference. No matter how you serve it, this aromatic, fragrant dish is sure to deliver a burst of flavours!

And if you’re looking to try other unique recipes steeped in African culinary tradition, check out my recipes for “Spinach Moi-Moi” or “Green Peanut Soup.” Bon appétit!