Digaag Qumbe, a beloved dish in Somali cuisine, showcases the rich and vibrant flavors of East Africa. This hearty chicken dish features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a fragrant coconut sauce, infused with a blend of traditional spices and herbs. The addition of qumbe, a type of coconut chutney, adds a delightful sweetness and depth to the dish, balancing perfectly with the savory elements. Served alongside aromatic rice or injera, Digaag Qumbe is a delicious and comforting meal that embodies the essence of Somali culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed at family gatherings or shared with friends, this dish promises a memorable culinary experience that celebrates the diverse and flavorful tastes of Somali cuisine.

Here's a recipe for Djibouti Digaag Qumbe:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 kg (about 3.3 lbs) chicken pieces, preferably skin-on and bone-in
• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt, to taste
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or flatbread (such as injera), for serving

Instructions:

1- Heat the ghee or oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

3- Now, add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until they start to break down and release their juices, about 5 minutes.

4- Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

6- Pour in the coconut milk, water, and tomato paste, stirring to combine everything well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

7- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken stew gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

8- Once the chicken is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

9- Serve the Djibouti Digaag Qumbe hot, garnished with chopped cilantro leaves. Accompany it with cooked rice or flatbread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your flavorful Djibouti Digaag Qumbe, a comforting chicken stew cooked in a luscious coconut sauce, packed with aromatic spices and herbs!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in Djibouti Digaag Qumbe per serving:

Chicken (about 200g serving):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 43g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in various vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.
• Promotes satiety and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Coconut Milk (1/4 cup or 60ml):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Provides healthy fats that support brain function and heart health.
• Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can boost energy and metabolism.
• May have antimicrobial and antiviral properties due to its lauric acid content.

Onion (1 medium-sized):

• Calories: 44 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:

• High in antioxidants such as quercetin, which may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health and digestion.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels and improve heart health.

Tomato (1 medium-sized):

• Calories: 22 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.
• Contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and protect against UV damage.
• Provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.

Ghee or Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Source of healthy fats that support brain health and hormone production.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties.
• May help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as specific brands, cooking methods, and portion sizes. Additionally, the overall nutritional content of the dish may vary depending on any additional ingredients or modifications made to the recipe.