Ingredients

Paste :
1/4 cup olive oil , or to taste
3 cloves garlic , minced
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
salt and ground black pepper to taste
4 large chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil , or as needed
1 white onion , chopped
2 cups water , or as needed
16 saffron threads
1/2 preserved lemon , pulp discarded and thinly sliced
1/4 cup olives , or to taste ( optional )
2 artichoke bottoms , chopped ( optional )
1/4 cup coarsely chopped parsley ( optional )
Moroccan cuisine is known for its distinctive blend of exotic spices and flavors. Moroccan Chicken with Saffron and Preserved Lemon is a classic dish that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan cooking. This dish is popular in North Africa and the Middle East and is often served with couscous or rice. The dish is easy to prepare and can be adjusted according to your taste.

Instructions

1.Mix together the olive oil, garlic, turmeric, cumin seeds, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to make a paste.
2.Rub the paste all over the chicken thighs, making sure that they are coated evenly.
3.Heat some olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
4.Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
5.Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6.Pour in enough water to cover the chicken and add the saffron threads.
7.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8.Add the preserved lemon and olives to the skillet, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
9.Serve the chicken hot, garnished with chopped parsley and the artichoke bottoms, if desired.

PROS

This dish is healthy and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for a summer evening.

The chicken is tender and juicy, and the preserved lemon gives it a tangy, citrusy flavor.

The saffron threads lend a delicate aroma and a distinct golden hue to the dish.

CONS

This dish takes some time to prepare and requires several ingredients such as saffron and preserved lemon which may not be available at your local grocery store.

Additionally, the olives and artichokes are optional, but they add a nice touch to the dish.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients such as niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorus.
Moreover, the turmeric and saffron in the recipe are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.