Discover the rich flavors of Madagascar with Akoho sy Voanio, a delectable chicken dish cooked in creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices. This traditional recipe blends tender chicken with the natural sweetness of coconut and a harmonious mix of spices for a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for anyone looking to explore unique Malagasy cuisine!

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless

- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1-2 tablespoons soy sauce

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh cilantro for garnish

- Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. 

Cook the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices: Add turmeric, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, and cumin to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices.

Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side until they start to brown.

Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over cooked rice.

Enjoy this flavorful Malagasy dish as a comforting meal that brings a taste of Madagascar to your table!

Nutritional Values

Chicken Thighs (4 pieces, bone-in and skinless)

 - Calories: 209

 - Protein: 26g

 - Fat: 11g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.

 - Vitamin B6: Helps with metabolism and cognitive function.

 - Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.

Coconut Milk (1 can, 14 oz)

 - Calories: 230

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 24g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits:

 - Healthy Fats: Provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which are beneficial for energy and metabolism.

 - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and E, which support immune function and skin health.

 - Minerals: Rich in magnesium and potassium, which aid in muscle and nerve function.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: 120

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - Healthy Fats: Provides essential fatty acids that support heart health.

 - Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Onion (1 large)

 - Calories: 40

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Contains quercetin and other antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and support heart health.

 - Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.

Garlic (3 cloves)

 - Calories: 149

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

Benefits:

 - Allicin: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

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

Fresh Ginger (1 tablespoon)

 - Calories: 80

 - Protein: 1.8g

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 18g

Benefits:

 - Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation and aid digestion.

 - Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.

Turmeric Powder (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 312

 - Protein: 9g

 - Fat: 3g

 - Carbohydrates: 67g

Benefits:

 - Curcumin: Contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

 - Joint Health: May help reduce symptoms of arthritis.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 282

 - Protein: 14g

 - Fat: 12g

 - Carbohydrates: 54g

Benefits:

 - Vitamin A: High in vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals.

Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 298

 - Protein: 12g

 - Fat: 17g

 - Carbohydrates: 55g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Aids digestion and may help reduce symptoms of bloating.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative damage.

Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 247

 - Protein: 4g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 81g

Benefits:

 - Blood Sugar Control: May help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

 - Antimicrobial: Contains compounds that have antimicrobial properties.

Ground Cumin (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 375

 - Protein: 18g

 - Fat: 22g

 - Carbohydrates: 44g

Benefits:

 - Digestion: May aid digestion and help with gastrointestinal issues.

 - Iron: High in iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the blood.

Soy Sauce (1-2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: 10

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Flavor Enhancer: Adds umami flavor to dishes with minimal calories.

 - Low Fat: Provides flavor without adding significant fat.

Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

 - Calories: 23

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like potassium and calcium.

 - Digestive Health: May help with digestion and detoxification.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and nutritious dish, offering various health benefits through their unique properties.