Fried or grilled chicken in the Ashanti tradition, with peanut sauce
Abɔdwom ne Nkatɛ Nkwan – Kɔkɔɔ a wɔabɔ anaa wɔagye wɔ amammerɛ Ashanti so

The Ashanti people, located in the heart of Ghana, are famous for their rich culture and gastronomy. Fried or grilled chicken, often served with peanut sauce (called "nkate nkwan"), is a staple dish prepared during celebrations, family gatherings, or rituals.

Traditional ingredients:

• Whole or cut free-range chicken (naturally fed)

• Natural salt

• Local spices: fresh chili peppers, fresh ginger, garlic, onions, bay leaves

• Raw unsalted peanuts (natural, home-roasted)

• Red palm oil or peanut oil (traditionally extracted)

• Pure water

• Fresh tomatoes (or sometimes sun-dried)

• Aromatic leaves (bush tea, African basil)

Traditional preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken:
   Clean the chicken thoroughly.
   Marinate with salt, crushed fresh chili, garlic, grated ginger, and crushed onion.
   Let rest for a few hours, ideally in a naturally cool place (under a thatched shelter or shaded area).

2. Cooking the chicken:
   Grill over wood fire, turning regularly to get a nicely browned and crispy skin.
   Or fry in hot red palm oil until golden, taking care not to burn it.

3. Preparing the peanut sauce (nkate nkwan):
   Roast the raw peanuts over low heat until golden.
   Pound or grind them in a wooden mortar to obtain a paste.
   Sauté onions, ginger, and chili in red palm oil.
   Add the peanut paste, crushed fresh tomatoes, and a little water to make a thick sauce.
   Simmer gently and season with salt.

Serving:
Serve the chicken hot, topped with peanut sauce, traditionally accompanied by fufu (a dough made from cassava or yam) or rice.

Cultural significance:
This dish is more than just a meal: it is a symbol of hospitality, honor to guests, and community celebration among the Ashanti.