Maize Rice with Chicken Necks and Hearts

This recipe is not only satisfying but also a great way to utilize often-overlooked cuts of chicken. Let’s dive into the ingredients, cooking instructions, and some helpful tips to make this dish a success!

Ingredients

For the Maize Rice:

• 2 cups maize (corn) meal
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil (optional)

For the Chicken Preparation:

• 500g chicken necks
• 500g chicken hearts
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

For Side Dish (optional):

• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

Grocery List

1. Maize meal (cornmeal)
2. Chicken necks and hearts
3. Onion (2 medium)
4. Garlic (6 cloves)
5. Paprika
6. Black pepper
7. Salt
8. Vegetable oil
9. Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
10. Spinach (optional)
11. Tomatoes (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Maize Rice

1. In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the maize meal and salt, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Reduce heat to low and cover the pot, allowing it to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
4. If desired, stir in butter or oil for added flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Necks and Hearts

1. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken necks and hearts to the pan along with paprika, black pepper, and salt.
5. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are cooked through and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Prepare Spinach Side Dish (Optional)

1. In another pan, add a splash of oil and sauté sliced onions until soft.
2. Add diced tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the maize rice topped with the sautéed chicken necks and hearts, garnished with fresh herbs. Pair it with the spinach side dish for a complete meal.

Cooking Time

• Total Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
  • Maize Rice: 20 minutes
  • Chicken Necks and Hearts: 15 minutes
  • Spinach Side Dish: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  • Maize Rice: ~200 kcal per serving
  • Chicken Necks & Hearts: ~150 kcal per serving

Tips & Notes

• Substitutions: If you can’t find chicken necks or hearts, you can use other parts like thighs or drumsticks.
• Flavor Boost: For extra flavor in your maize rice, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves while it cooks.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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This dish is not only fulfilling but also a wonderful way to explore different textures and flavors in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy your culinary adventure!