Chicken Afritada—a beloved Filipino stew, promises a comforting and flavorful journey with every bite. This vibrant dish, brimming with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, truly embodies the warmth of Filipino home cooking. For home cooks, creating a heartwarming chicken afritada recipe is a simple joy that yields delicious results.
Indeed, afritada stands as a testament to the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage, often gracing family tables on special occasions and regular weeknights alike. The harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet notes, enhanced by potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, makes it an undeniable crowd-pleaser. Moreover, its versatility allows for easy adjustments to suit various tastes, ensuring everyone at the table finds something to love.
The Heart of Filipino Comfort Food
Many Filipinos cherish afritada for its hearty and satisfying nature. Unlike some other stews, its tomato-based sauce offers a bright and tangy counterpoint to the richness of the chicken. Meanwhile, the addition of vegetables not only adds essential nutrients but also contributes to the dish’s appealing texture and visual charm. This classic stew truly shines as a symbol of shared meals and treasured memories.
Preparing afritada doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. In fact, its straightforward process makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or for those new to Filipino cooking. The key lies in slowly simmering the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Consequently, the result is a deeply flavorful stew that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Simple Steps to a Delicious Chicken Afritada Recipe
This recipe provides a simple, foolproof guide to making your own delicious chicken afritada right in your kitchen. Gather your fresh ingredients, and let’s get cooking. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to bring this classic Filipino dish to life.
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken, cut into serving pieces (thighs and drumsticks work best)
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into rounds
1 red bell pepper, cored and cut into strips
1 green bell pepper, cored and cut into strips
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 cup water or chicken broth
1/4 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce (patis), optional
Salt and black pepper to taste
Steps
Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps seal in the juices and adds depth of flavor to your chicken afritada.
Pour in the tomato sauce and water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Stir in the red and green bell peppers and green peas. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the bell peppers are slightly tender but still retain a bit of crunch. Meanwhile, the flavors will continue to meld beautifully.
Season with soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile. Serve hot with steamed white rice.
A Personal Note
This chicken afritada recipe truly brings warmth and comfort to any meal, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings. Its rich, savory flavor profile is incredibly satisfying, and the straightforward cooking process makes it a joy to prepare. You’ll love how easily this classic comes together.
Cultural Significance
Afritada holds a special place in Filipino cuisine, frequently appearing at celebrations and everyday meals alike. It symbolizes the comforting and communal aspect of Filipino food, often shared among loved ones. This stew perfectly represents the culinary ingenuity and hearty spirit of the Filipino kitchen.
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