Poulet DG (Chicken Directeur Général)

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cameroonian cuisine with Poulet DG, a sumptuous dish combining tender chicken with plantains, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Often served at special occasions or family gatherings, this dish is both visually stunning and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces
• 3 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced diagonally
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1–2 Scotch bonnet or chili peppers (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (for sautéing)
• 1 cup chicken broth or water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

   Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, curry powder, and thyme. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Fry the Plantains

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. Brown the Chicken

   In a large pan, heat the remaining vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden. Remove and set aside.

4. Cook the Sauce

   In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers until fragrant. Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, and Scotch bonnet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the sauce thickens.

5. Simmer

   Return the chicken to the pan, add chicken broth, cover, and simmer over low heat for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

6. Combine with Plantains

   Gently fold the fried plantains into the chicken and sauce mixture, allowing them to absorb some of the rich flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Serve

   Serve Poulet DG hot, garnished with fresh parsley or coriander if desired.

Serving

Poulet DG is traditionally served with steamed white rice, boiled yams, or fried plantains on the side. Its combination of tender chicken, sweet plantains, and spicy, aromatic sauce makes it a festive centerpiece for any meal.

Delight your taste buds with Poulet DG, a dish that celebrates the colorful, bold, and heartwarming flavors of Cameroonian cuisine. Perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests at a special occasion.