Sesotho Chicken

Ingredients

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
1-2 green chilies, sliced (optional, for heat)
Salt to taste
1/2 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and ground black pepper.

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Saut√© until the onions are translucent and aromatic.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to break down.

Add ground paprika, turmeric, cumin, and thyme. Mix well.

Simmer the Chicken

Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Add the green chilies if using.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Finish the Dish

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.