Explore the vibrant flavors of Senegal with our authentic Yassa recipe. Yassa is a traditional West African dish that tantalizes your taste buds with a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. This hearty chicken dish is known for its rich history and bold taste, making it a must-try for any adventurous food enthusiast.

Ingredients:

For this delightful Yassa recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

2 large onions, thinly sliced

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ginger, minced

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 tablespoons white vinegar

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups of cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

Let's get cooking

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, minced garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear until they turn golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Yassa Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, white vinegar, bay leaves, thyme, and chili flakes. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it with the Yassa sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve Yassa:

Serve the Yassa hot over a bed of cooked rice, allowing the fragrant sauce to soak into the rice.

Serving:

Yassa is best enjoyed hot and fresh, served with a side of rice. You can also accompany it with a green salad or some traditional Senegalese sides, such as fried plantains.

In conclusion, Yassa is a flavorful journey to the heart of Senegal. With its zesty and aromatic sauce, tender chicken, and a rich history, this dish embodies the essence of West African cuisine. Give it a try to experience the vibrant flavors that Senegal has to offer. Prepare to be transported to the bustling markets of Dakar with every mouthful.