Savor the Flavors of the Philippines: A Guide to Cooking Chicken Afritada

How to cook Chicken Afritada

Chicken Afritada is a popular Filipino dish that features chicken pieces simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce along with a variety of vegetables. This dish is known for its rich flavors and vibrant colors, typically including ingredients such as potatoes, carrots, bell peppers and sometimes green peas. The key to a good Chicken Afritada is the balance of flavors, where the acidity of the tomatoes complements the savory notes off the chicken and vegetables.

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Chicken Afritada is a beloved Filipino dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. known for its vibrant colors and hearty flavors, this dish combines tender chicken with a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Chicken Afritada is a comforting meal that issure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1kg chicken cut into serving pieces
• 2tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1large size onion chopped
• 4cloves garlic minced
• 2large size tomatoes chopped
• 1 red bell pepper sliced
• 2medium potatoes peeled and cubed
• 2medium carrots sliced
• 1cup tomato sauce
• 1cup chicken broth or water
• 2tablespoons soy sauce
• 1pc bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• green peas or olives for added flavor optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken– Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Saute the aromatics– In the same pan, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Saute until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and continue to cook until they soften.
3. Cook the Vegetables– Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots to the pan. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes. This step allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors from the aromatics.
4. Simmer the sauce– Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth (or water). Stir in the soy sauce and add the bay leaf. Return the browned chicken to the pan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Finish Cooking– Cover the pan and let the dish simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Add the sliced bell peppers and optional ingredients like green peas or olives in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve– Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf and transfer the Chicken Afritada to a serving dish. Serve hot with steamed rice.

What are the difference among Afrtada, Kaldereta and Mechado?

• Afritada
  • typically made with chicken and pork, Afritada features a tomato-based sauce and is characterized by the inclusion of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. It is milder in flavor compared to the other two dishes.
• Kaldereta
  • Often made with beef or goat, Kaldereta is a spicier dish, sometimes made richer with liver spread or cheese. It often includes potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, similar to Afritada, but it has a more complex and bold flavor profile due to the additional ingredients.
• Mechado
  • is traditionally made with beef and is known for its distinct flavor, often enhanced by inserting pork fat into the beef ( a process called larding). Its sauce is also tomato-based but is usually tangier, sometimes with soy sauce and vinegar, and includes ingredients like bell peppers and potatoes.

Health Benefits of Eating Chicken Afritada

1. High Protein Content– Chicken is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals– The vegetables in Chicken Afritada, such as carrots and bell peppers, provide vitamins A and C, antioxidants important for immune health and vision.
3. Source of Fiber– The inclusion of vegetables adds dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
4. Balanced Meal– Chicken Afritada is a well-rounded dish providing proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins, making it a nutritious option when paired with rice.
5. Low in Saturated Fat– If prepared with lean chicken and minimal oil, it can be a heart-healthy dish with lower levels of saturated fat.

In conclusion Chicken Afritada is a delightful and nutritious Filipino dish that is not only easy to prepare but also offers a balance of flavors and nutrients. its versatility and the potential for healthy variations make it a staple in many Filipino households.