Chicken Yassa: A traditional recipe from Senegal

A Poultry Delight with a Senegalese Twist

Chicken Yassa, hailing from Senegal, is a tangy and flavorful dish. Marinated in an aromatic mix of lemon and onions, this chicken preparation exemplifies the perfect blend of zest and savory flavors.

Journey into the Heart of Senegalese Cuisine

With its origins in the Casamance region of Senegal, Chicken Yassa is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Senegalese culinary innovation, blending simple ingredients to create a symphony of flavors.

Essentials for the Perfect Chicken Yassa

• 4 chicken pieces (legs or thighs)
• 4 onions, thinly sliced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 chili pepper, deseeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Crafting the Yassa Magic

1. Marinating the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix onions, lemon juice, garlic, chili pepper, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they’re well-coated with the marinade. Let it sit for several hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Searing the Poultry: In a pan, heat the vegetable oil. Remove chicken from the marinade (keep the marinade) and sear each piece until golden brown on all sides.
3. Creating the Sauce: In the same pan, add the saved marinade and chicken broth. Let it simmer until onions are soft and translucent.
4. Uniting Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the pan, immersing it in the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
5. Serving Tradition: Chicken Yassa is best served with rice, soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Chicken Yassa: Savoring Senegal’s Culinary Richness

Every bite of Chicken Yassa offers a rich tapestry of Senegalese culture, history, and culinary prowess. It serves as a delightful introduction to a nation’s heart through its cuisine, where ingredients, techniques, and love come together to create gastronomic masterpieces. As you embark on your culinary travels through Africa, let Chicken Yassa be a flavor-packed pit stop.

This dish is a testament to the diverse Senegal Food Culture. Explore this and other culinary wonders with us.