Delicious and Nutritious Recipes with Scent Leaves

Ingredients

2 cups of fresh scent leaves
1 pound of chicken, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
2 cups of chicken broth
1 can of coconut milk
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Steps and instructions

Wash the scent leaves thoroughly and set aside.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the saucepan and cook until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same saucepan, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and turmeric powder. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Return the chicken to the saucepan, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes.
Add the coconut milk, lemon juice, and the fresh scent leaves. Stir well to combine.
Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tools for making

Saucepan - A large saucepan will be needed to cook the chicken and prepare the sauce.
Knife - A sharp knife will be needed to cut the chicken into pieces and finely chop the onion.
Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board will provide a safe surface for cutting the chicken and vegetables.
Grater - A grater will be needed to grate the ginger for the recipe.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons will be necessary to accurately measure the salt, pepper, turmeric powder, and lemon juice.
Cooking spoon - A cooking spoon will be used for stirring and combining the ingredients in the saucepan.
Can opener - A can opener will be required to open the can of coconut milk.

Recipe variations

Replace the chicken with shrimp or beef for a different protein option.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or green beans to make it a more vibrant and nutritious dish.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For a spicier flavor, add chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil, thyme, or curry powder to customize the flavor profile.
For a creamier texture, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream.
For a tangy twist, squeeze some lime or tamarind juice into the dish.
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check the labels of other ingredients for hidden gluten.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Scent Leaves recipe page! This recipe is a flavorful and healthy dish that incorporates the unique aroma of fresh scent leaves with the succulence of chicken. Seasoned with a variety of spices, and simmered in a rich broth of chicken and coconut milk, this recipe brings a delightful fusion of taste and aroma to your table. It's a simple, step-by-step recipe that even beginners can follow with ease. Expect a warm, hearty dish that's perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner with friends. Let's dive into the details and start cooking!

Common questions

Can I use dried scent leaves instead of fresh ones? No, it is recommended to use fresh scent leaves for this recipe as they have a stronger aroma and flavor.
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken? Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or any other meat of your choice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this recipe? This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or fresh chili peppers if desired.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of this recipe.
What can I serve this dish with? This dish goes well with steamed rice, boiled yam, plantains, or any other starchy side of your choice.
How long does this recipe take to prepare? The total preparation time for this recipe is approximately 40-45 minutes.

Serving dishes and utensils

Saucepan - A large saucepan is needed for cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce.
Knife - A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken into pieces and chopping the onion.
Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and clean surface for cutting ingredients.
Grater - A grater is required for grating the ginger.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are necessary for accurately measuring salt, black pepper, turmeric powder, and lemon juice.
Cooking spoon - A cooking spoon or spatula is needed for stirring and combining the ingredients in the saucepan.
Ladle - A ladle is useful for serving the chicken and sauce.
Garnishing tool - A tool like kitchen shears or a knife can be used for chopping fresh parsley for garnishing.

Origin stories

Scent leaves, also known as Basil, have a rich history that spans continents and cultures. They are common in traditional recipes across West Africa, especially in Nigeria where they are known as 'Efinrin.' It's said that the plant has spiritual significance for the Yoruba people of Southwestern Nigeria and is often used in rituals for luck and prosperity. In the culinary world, its unique aroma can transform a simple dish into an exotic delight, adding a distinctly rich flavor that dances on the palate. It's not just a flavor enhancer though, the scent leaf boasts an impressive list of health benefits from aiding digestion to relieving colds. Indeed, this humble leaf is a culinary and medicinal gem.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.