Off Zeytum - Moroccan Jewish Chicken with Olives
Try this Off Zeytum Moroccan Jewish Dish of Chicken with Olives recipe.
Try this Off Zeytum Moroccan Jewish Dish of Chicken with Olives recipe.
- garnish
- 1/2 ts cinnamon
- 1/2 ts black pepper ground
- 1/4 ts ginger
- 1 1/2 c water; (i use 50-50. water,
- 1 c green olives; soaked in
- 1 1/2 ts salt; kosher of course
- 1 md onion; red will do nicely as
- 1 head of garlic; peeled
- 1/3 c oil; olive first preference,
- 1/2 c chopped serranos; or do what
- 1 tb cornflour or cornstarch
- chopped parsely
- 6 sl pickled lemons*
- 1/2 ts tumeric
- shredded serranos
- 1/3 c chopped parsely
- fresh curry leaves; if not
- 3 lb chicken pieces
- Carbohydrate 3.72899125 g
- Cholesterol 1008 mg
- Fat 202.60163125 g
- Fiber 1.93313746452332 g
- Protein 250.319625 g
- Saturated Fat 57.9865275 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (1409g)
- Sodium 942.048 mg
- Sugar 1.79585378547668 g
- Trans Fat 17.2576335 g
- Calories 2904 calories
Step-by-step
- Prepare Limonim Hamoutzim (salted, drained lemons with paprika and oil, aged 3-4 weeks; substitute with Indian pickled limes if needed).
- Dry chicken pieces with paper towels.
- Combine spices (salt, pepper, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric), rub onto chicken, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Brown chicken in oil in a heavy pan; set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion and garlic in oil until transparent.
- Stir in parsley, chilies, curry leaves, and 50/50 water/stock; bring to a boil.
- Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes, or until tender.
- Add lemons and olives; simmer for 10 more minutes.
- Remove chicken and place on a serving dish. Arrange olives and lemons over the chicken; discard curry leaves.
- Thicken the remaining liquid with a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water and bring to a boil while stirring for 2 minutes).
- Pour thickened sauce over chicken.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and shredded serranos.
- Serve with couscous or long-grain rice.
Off Zeytum: A Moroccan Jewish Culinary Delight
As a busy professional, finding the time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can often feel like an impossible task. But believe me, even amidst the whirlwind of deadlines and meetings, there's always room for a little culinary adventure, especially when it's as flavorful and relatively simple as this Off Zeytum recipe. This Moroccan Jewish dish is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, expertly combined to create a symphony of tastes and textures.
The heart of this dish lies in its rich, savory sauce, the result of slow-simmering chicken in a blend of aromatic spices and herbs. The addition of olives adds a briny counterpoint to the richness of the chicken, while the pickled lemons (or their readily available substitute) provide a delightful tang that cuts through the richness and adds a unique depth of flavor. I love how the slightly sweet and spicy notes from the spices dance on your tongue, making each bite an exciting exploration of Moroccan culinary heritage.
One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is its adaptability. It's a blank canvas, ready for your personal touches. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Want a spicier kick? Add more chilies! Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the amount of chili and serranos. The beauty of cooking, especially dishes like this one, is its forgiving nature; it allows for experimentation and personal expression.
The preparation itself is surprisingly straightforward, a welcome aspect for a busy weeknight dinner. The most time-consuming part is the simmering time; however, this is a perfect opportunity to relax and catch up on some reading or other tasks. The slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld seamlessly. The result? A succulent, juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth.
Beyond the ease of preparation, this Off Zeytum is also remarkably versatile. It's equally at home served with couscous, as suggested in the original recipe, or with long-grain rice or even a simple green salad. It's a meal that can easily transition from a casual weeknight dinner to a more elegant gathering with friends. The vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and succulent chicken make it a true showstopper, no matter the occasion.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a journey into a rich culinary tradition. It's a chance to connect with a culture's history and heritage through the simple act of cooking and eating. Each bite is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to share stories, and to create lasting memories.
So, the next time you're looking for a flavorful, satisfying, and relatively easy meal, give this Off Zeytum a try. I guarantee it will become a new family favorite. The vibrant flavors, the tender chicken, and the ease of preparation will make it a welcome addition to your culinary repertoire.
Remember, cooking should be enjoyable. Don't be afraid to experiment, to add your own personal touches, and to embrace the joy of creating something delicious and meaningful. And who knows, maybe this Off Zeytum will inspire you to explore more of the wonderful world of Moroccan cuisine. Happy cooking!
