Aqda Al-Dajaj (Chicken Aqda) – Ingredients and Cooking Method

Aqda Al-Dajaj (Chicken Aqda) – Ingredients and Cooking Method

Aqda Al-Dajaj is one of the most popular traditional Yemeni dishes, often served at large celebrations. The name "Aqda" comes from the way the chicken is cooked until it becomes very tender, giving it a knot-like appearance. This dish is rich in proteins and offers numerous health benefits.

Here’s how to prepare Aqda Al-Dajaj.

Ingredients for Chicken Aqda

• ½ chicken, cut into medium-sized pieces
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 potatoes, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green chili pepper and 1 red chili pepper
• 2 large tablespoons of tomato paste
• ½ bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
• A small amount of oil (as desired)
• A pinch of salt (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon each of cinnamon, black pepper, and cardamom
• 1 teaspoon of cumin and 1 teaspoon of curry powder

Cooking Method for Chicken Aqda

1. Sauté the Onions:

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they soften.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pan with the onions. Stir and cook for about 10 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables:

   • Add the zucchini, potato slices, and the green chili pepper. Stir well, then add the tomatoes and cilantro. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.

4. Simmer:

   • Cover the pan and let the mixture cook on medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Spices:

   • After 5 minutes, add the crushed garlic and curry powder. Stir for about 2 minutes.

6. Add Water and Simmer:

   • Pour in 2 cups of hot water, cover the pan, and allow the chicken and vegetables to simmer until most of the water evaporates.

7. Season:

   • Add the cumin, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, and ground red chili. Stir continuously, then pour in 1 cup of hot water.

8. Finish with Tomato Paste:

   • Cover the pan and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste, a small amount of water, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture cook on medium heat until the chicken is fully tender and cooked through.

9. Serve:

   • Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat. If the chicken needs more time to cook, you can add another ½ cup of water and let it simmer longer.

Serve Aqda Al-Dajaj hot with bread or rice, depending on your preference.

Enjoy your delicious Yemeni Chicken Aqda!