Discover the irresistible flavors of Akoho sy Voanio, a traditional dish featuring tender chicken simmered in creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices. Perfect for those who love rich, flavorful meals, this Malagasy recipe combines the subtle sweetness of coconut with the warmth of spices to create a comforting and satisfying dish. Follow our easy step-by-step instructions to make this delightful meal at home!

Ingredients:

- 1 kg chicken pieces (legs or thighs)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

- 1 red bell pepper, chopped

- 1 green bell pepper, chopped

- 2 tomatoes, chopped

- 400 ml coconut milk

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 tablespoon curry powder

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the red and green bell peppers and chopped tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then add the curry powder, turmeric powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.

Simmer with Coconut Milk: Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.

Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy Akoho sy Voanio with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

This Akoho sy Voanio recipe offers a delicious taste of Madagascar, perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Nutritional Values

Chicken (1 kg)

- Calories: Approximately 165 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 31 grams

- Fat: 3.6 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Benefits:

- High in Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair.

- Rich in Vitamins: Good source of B vitamins (B6, B12) that support energy metabolism and red blood cell formation.

- Minerals: Provides important minerals like phosphorus and selenium, which support bone health and antioxidant defenses.

Onion (1 large)

- Calories: 40 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 1.1 grams

- Fat: 0.1 grams

- Carbohydrates: 9 grams

Benefits:

- Rich in Antioxidants: Contains quercetin and sulfur compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

- Supports Heart Health: Can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

- Boosts Immune System: Vitamin C and other nutrients help enhance immune function.

Garlic (3 cloves)

- Calories: 149 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 6.4 grams

- Fat: 0.5 grams

- Carbohydrates: 33 grams

Benefits:

- Antimicrobial Properties: Contains allicin, which has antibacterial and antiviral effects.

- Heart Health: May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

- Boosts Immunity: Supports immune system health and can help prevent common colds.

Ginger (1 tablespoon)

- Calories: 80 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 1.8 grams

- Fat: 0.8 grams

- Carbohydrates: 18 grams

Benefits:

- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce muscle pain and soreness.

- Digestive Health: Aids in digestion and can alleviate nausea.

- Immune Support: Contains antioxidants that boost immune function.

Bell Peppers (1 red and 1 green)

- Calories: 20 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 0.9 grams

- Fat: 0.2 grams

- Carbohydrates: 4.7 grams

Benefits:

- High in Vitamin C: Supports immune function and skin health.

- Antioxidants: Rich in carotenoids and flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress.

- Low in Calories: Provides essential nutrients with minimal calories.

Tomatoes (2 medium)

- Calories: 18 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 0.9 grams

- Fat: 0.2 grams

- Carbohydrates: 3.9 grams

Benefits:

- Rich in Lycopene: An antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

- Supports Heart Health: Contains potassium and vitamins that support cardiovascular health.

- Hydrating: High water content helps keep you hydrated.

Coconut Milk (400 ml)

- Calories: 230 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 2.3 grams

- Fat: 24 grams

- Carbohydrates: 6 grams

Benefits:

- Healthy Fats: Provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can boost energy and metabolism.

- Rich in Nutrients: Contains iron, magnesium, and potassium.

- Anti-inflammatory: May help reduce inflammation in the body.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

- Calories: 120 kcal per tablespoon

- Fat: 14 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Source of Healthy Fats: Essential for cell function and hormone production.

- Vitamin E: Provides antioxidants that protect cells from damage.

Curry Powder (1 tablespoon)

- Calories: 24 kcal per tablespoon

- Protein: 1 gram

- Fat: 1 gram

- Carbohydrates: 4 grams

Benefits:

- Contains Turmeric: Has curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

- Rich in Spices: Provides various health benefits depending on the blend, including digestive aid and immune support.

Turmeric Powder (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 8 kcal per teaspoon

- Protein: 0.2 grams

- Fat: 0.2 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1.8 grams

Benefits:

- Anti-inflammatory: Contains curcumin, which can reduce inflammation and pain.

- Antioxidant: Helps protect cells from oxidative damage.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 6 kcal per teaspoon

- Protein: 0.3 grams

- Fat: 0.3 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1.1 grams

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamins: Provides vitamins A and E, which support vision and skin health.

- Antioxidants: Contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Black Pepper (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 6 kcal per teaspoon

- Protein: 0.2 grams

- Fat: 0.1 grams

- Carbohydrates: 1.5 grams

Benefits:

- Enhances Digestion: Stimulates digestive enzymes and improves nutrient absorption.

- Contains Piperine: May enhance the bioavailability of other nutrients, like curcumin in turmeric.

Salt (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Protein: 0 grams

- Fat: 0 grams

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Benefits:

- Electrolyte Balance: Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

- Enhances Flavor: Improves the taste of foods, making meals more enjoyable.

Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

- Calories: 23 kcal per 100 grams

- Protein: 2.1 grams

- Fat: 0.5 grams

- Carbohydrates: 3.7 grams

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamins: Provides vitamins A, C, and K, which support overall health.

- Antioxidant Properties: Contains compounds that can help fight oxidative stress and inflammation.