Description
Canja – Cape Verdean Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of Cape Verdean culture. This rich and nourishing soup combines tender chicken thighs, hearty rice, and an array of vibrant vegetables, creating a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, Canja is more than just sustenance; it’s a culinary embrace that brings warmth to your table. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste, this dish promises to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons crushed garlic
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 1 large tomato (quartered)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 bouillon cubes
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 1–2 small potatoes (diced)
- 1 and ½ cups medium-grain rice
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, and olive oil for at least one hour.
- In a large stock pot, brown the marinated chicken over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onions and quartered tomatoes until softened.
- Add the browned chicken back to the pot along with the chicken broth and water. Simmer for one hour.
- Shred the chicken once cooked, then return it to the pot with rice and diced carrots. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Add diced potatoes and cook until tender.
- Let rest before serving hot with optional garnishes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Cape Verdean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: To enhance flavor, allow marination overnight if possible. Adjust seasoning to taste throughout cooking for optimal flavor balance. Consider adding different vegetables or spices for a personalized twist.