Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Guam with our signature Chicken Estufao! This traditional Chamorro dish boasts tender chicken pieces simmered to perfection in a medley of aromatic spices and tangy vinegar, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. Served alongside steaming white rice, Guam Chicken Estufao is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific island. Whether you're a seasoned food enthusiast or embarking on a culinary adventure, this dish promises a delightful journey through Guam's culinary traditions.

Here's a recipe for Guam Chicken Estufao:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a combination)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt to taste
• Green onions or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, white vinegar, water, minced garlic, sliced onion, ground black pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine the marinade.

2- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

3- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces (reserve the marinade) and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4- Pour the reserved marinade over the browned chicken pieces in the pot. If desired, add brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.

5- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chicken simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally.

6- Once the chicken is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.

7- Serve the Guam Chicken Estufao hot, garnished with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy with steamed white rice and your favorite side dishes.

This Chamorro-style chicken stew is bursting with savory flavors from the soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, onions, and spices, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in the Guam Chicken Estufao recipe:

Chicken (2-3 lbs):

• Calories: 800-1200 kcal
• Protein: 100-150 grams
• Fat: 40-60 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams (negligible)

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Provides important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium.
• Contains phosphorus and zinc, which are beneficial for bone health and immune function.

Soy sauce (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 50 kcal
• Protein: 4 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 8 grams
• Sodium: 6000 mg (approximate, varies by brand)

benefits:

• Adds savory flavor to dishes.
• Contains small amounts of protein and carbohydrates.
• Provides a rich source of sodium, which helps regulate fluid balance in the body.

White vinegar (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams

benefits:

• Helps tenderize meat and enhance flavors in marinades and sauces.
• Can aid digestion and promote gut health when consumed in moderation.
• May have antimicrobial properties and be beneficial for preserving foods.

Garlic (6 cloves):

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 6 grams

benefits:

• Contains allicin, a compound with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Has been linked to potential immune-boosting effects.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 45 kcal
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 11 grams

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants such as quercetin and sulfur compounds, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
• Provides vitamin C, which supports immune function.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that promote gut health.

Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 14 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams

benefits:

• Provides essential fatty acids necessary for brain function and hormone production.
• Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
• Can contribute to a healthier lipid profile when consumed in moderation.

Brown sugar (1 tablespoon, optional):

• Calories: 45 kcal
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 12 grams

benefits:

• Adds sweetness and balance to savory dishes.
• Contains trace amounts of minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron.
• Provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content.

Nutritional values may vary based on factors such as specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Additionally, the values provided are approximate and should be used as a general guideline.