Rosemary Roasted Root Vegetables

This bowl is a delightful mix of textures, flavors, and vibrant colors, inspired by traditional African dishes. It combines spicy grilled chicken, flavorful stews, creamy spinach, and sweet root vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Here's how to prepare this beautiful and hearty dish.

Ingredients:

For the Spicy Grilled Chicken:

• 2 chicken drumsticks
• Marinade: Olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper

For the Tomato-Based Stew:

• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt, pepper, and spices (cumin, coriander, or paprika)

For the Creamy Spinach:

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste

For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and boiled
• 1 tbsp butter
• Pinch of salt

For the Beets:

• 1 small beet, boiled and sliced

For the Curried Chicken or Sauce:

• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Base:

• 1 cup cooked white rice

Preparation Method:

1. Prepare the Spicy Grilled Chicken:

   • Marinate the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Grill or bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally for an even char.

2. Cook the Tomato-Based Stew:

   • Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
   • Add tomatoes, bell peppers, and tomato paste. Cook until softened.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and spices. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Make the Creamy Spinach:

   • Melt butter in a pan, stir in flour to form a roux, and slowly whisk in milk.
   • Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

4. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:

   • Mash the boiled sweet potato with butter and a pinch of salt until smooth.

5. Prepare the Beets:

   • Slice the boiled beets and season lightly with salt if desired.

6. Make the Curried Chicken or Sauce:

   • In a pan, combine shredded chicken with coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through and flavors meld.

7. Assemble the Bowl:

   • Start with a base of cooked white rice.
   • Add the grilled chicken, tomato stew, creamy spinach, mashed sweet potatoes, beets, and curried chicken or sauce to different sections of the bowl.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve immediately as a hearty, flavorful meal.

Customization Ideas:

• Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for grilled fish or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Additional Toppings: Add fried plantains, avocado slices, or a spicy hot sauce.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a flatbread like chapati or naan for an extra filling meal.

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