Chicken Afritada is a Filipino dish that consists of chicken pieces simmered in a tomato sauce with potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and peas. It is also known as afritadang manok, which means “chicken in sauce” in Tagalog. It is a comfort food that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it is a family dinner, a party, or a rainy day. Here are some of the reasons why you should try chicken afritada:
- It is a versatile dish: Chicken Afritada can be made with different kinds of chicken, such as whole, cut-up, or boneless. You can also use other meats, such as pork, beef, or seafood, as alternatives or additions to chicken. You can adjust the amount and type of tomato sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices to suit your taste. You can also add other ingredients, such as sugar, honey, coconut milk, hot dogs, or cheese, to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- It is a nutritious dish: Chicken Afritada is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are essential for your muscle, blood, and nerve health. The tomato sauce in the dish can help boost your immune system, prevent scurvy, and improve your skin health. The vinegar in the dish can help lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and improve your digestion and immunity. The garlic in the dish can help fight infections and inflammation, and boost your metabolism and cardiovascular health. The vegetables in the dish can provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, which can help prevent various diseases and promote your overall wellness.
- It is a flavorful dish: Chicken Afritada has a unique and appetizing aroma and taste that comes from the combination of chicken, tomato sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaf. The chicken pieces are tender and juicy, and absorb the flavor of the sauce. The sauce is thick and rich, and has a balanced taste of salty, sour, and sweet. Chicken Afritada is best served with hot steamed rice, which complements the savory and tangy taste of the dish. You can also enjoy chicken afritada with bread, noodles, or salad, or use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or pies.
Chicken Afritada is a dish that showcases the history and culture of the Philippines. It is a dish that originated from the Spanish colonization, when the Filipinos adapted the Spanish method of preserving meat with vinegar and salt, and added their own ingredients and spices. It is a dish that varies from region to region, and from family to family, depending on the availability and preference of the ingredients. It is a dish that represents the identity and pride of the Filipino people, who have shared and spread the dish to other parts of the world. Chicken Afritada is truly a Filipino comfort food with tomato sauce and vegetables that deserves more attention and appreciation.