Kota Kapama is a traditional South African delicacy that transforms humble chicken into a deeply flavorful meal. This dish features chicken pieces slowly braised in a savory sauce enriched with tomato paste, dry white wine, and a fragrant blend of cinnamon and cloves. The result is tender, fall-off-the-bone meat coated in a glossy, reddish-brown sauce that balances sweetness, acidity, and spice. It offers a comforting, hearty texture perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings.
Kota Kapama (Chicken Braised With Cinnamon & Cloves)
Description
Kota Kapama is a traditional South African delicacy that transforms humble chicken into a deeply flavorful meal. This dish features chicken pieces slowly braised in a savory sauce enriched with tomato paste, dry white wine, and a fragrant blend of cinnamon and cloves. The result is tender, fall-off-the-bone meat coated in a glossy, reddish-brown sauce that balances sweetness, acidity, and spice. It offers a comforting, hearty texture perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings.Ingredients
Directions
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Arrange the chicken pieces in a glass or earthenware bowl and rub all over with lemon juice. Allow to stand for 10-15 minutes.
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Heat the butter and oil mixture in a heavy braising pot over medium heat.
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Slip the chicken pieces into the hot fat and cook, turning with tongs to avoid pricking the flesh, until light chestnut in color on all sides.
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If using wine, heat it in a small pan, then pour over the chicken in the braising pot. Shake the pan gently to deglaze any browned bits from the bottom.
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Stir in the chopped tomatoes and the tomato paste mixed with water.
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Add the cinnamon stick and cloves among the chicken pieces.
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Cover the pot and simmer over the lowest possible heat for 1-1/2 hours, or until the chicken is very tender and the sauce has thickened.
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Alternatively, transfer the covered pot to a preheated oven at 325F (165C) and bake for 1-1/2 hours.
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Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
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Serve warm over cooked grain, pap, or mashed potatoes with green vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley or watercress.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 242.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.4g24%
- Saturated Fat 8.5g43%
- Cholesterol 54.5mg19%
- Sodium 240.3mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 15.8g6%
- Dietary Fiber 7.8g32%
- Sugars 2.7g
- Protein 8.4g17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.