The aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen, the sizzle of tender chicken in a hot pan – there’s something magical about Kuku Paka that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Mombasa.
What makes Kuku Paka truly special is its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this dish never fails to spark conversation and leave everyone feeling satisfied.
One of the best things about Kuku Paka is its versatility. You can adjust the heat level to suit your taste, and it pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal that actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering Kuku Paka recipe and bring a taste of East Africa to your kitchen!
Why I Love This Recipe?
- I was initially intimidated by the ingredient list, but found it surprisingly easy to make – perfect for expanding your culinary horizons!
- The leftovers are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and the flavors only get better with time.
- My picky eaters actually request this dish, making it a win for the whole family.
- I’ve experimented with different vegetables like bell peppers and spinach, turning it into a complete one-pot meal.
- The aromatic spices fill the house with an irresistible scent, instantly putting everyone in a good mood.
East African Kuku Paka Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Cutting Board
- Cooking Pot
Ingredients
MARINADE
- 1 full medium-sized chicken skinless and bone-in or, your preferred cut, such as the breast.
- 1 ½ tablespoon tablespoon olive oil or favourite cooking oil.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder ground turmeric
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- juice of half a lemon to clean the chicken
- 1 tablespoon garlic finely minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger finely minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder ground cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder optional
TO MAKE THE COCONUT SAUCE
- 2 tablespoon suitable cooking oil olive oil, coconut oil or your preferred choice of cooking oil
- 1 medium-sized onion finely diced or julienne sliced
- 1 large bell pepper chopped
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ginger finely minced or crushed
- ½ teaspoon garlic finely minced or crushed
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- ⅓ cup tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups canned coconut milk
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder ground cumin
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- Clean the chicken with lemon juice or pat it dry.
- Cut the chicken into pieces, remove excess fat, and make slits.
- In a bowl, mix chicken with lemon juice, garlic, ginger, spices, salt, and olive oil.
- Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
Grill the Chicken
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Let the chicken come to room temperature.
- Grease the chicken with oil and grill for 5 minutes on each side.
- Flip every 5 minutes until cooked through, about 25 minutes.
- Set aside and cover with foil.
Make the Coconut Sauce
- Heat a pan over medium heat, add oil, and fry onions until soft.
- Stir in tomato paste, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, salt, coconut milk, and lemon juice.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add bell pepper and coriander, cook for another 2-5 minutes.
Serve
- Place grilled chicken on a plate, pour the hot coconut sauce over it.
- Garnish with coriander or sliced chili. Enjoy!
Notes
Useful Tips for Kuku Paka
- Meat Choices: You can use other cuts of meat, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Marinating: Don’t skip marinating! It tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.
- Grill Temperature: Use a charcoal or electric grill on medium heat. High heat might cook the outside too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) with clear juices for safe and delicious results.