Chicken afritada is one of the many Filipino tomato based stew. In this case, it is a tomato based chicken stew. Obviously the name of the dish has some Spanish origin like many other Filipino cuisine with tomato sauce like the calderata or menudo. This dish contains vegetables like potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, green peas or chick peas and of course to make it more savory, grated cheese was added. One advantage of cooking this dish is the less cooking time involved because it uses chicken meat instead of red meat like pork or beef. You can use almost any parts of the chicken depending on your preference.
A Taste of Filipino Heritage
Also known as Afritadang Manok, is a classic Filipino dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. This tomato-based chicken stew is a staple in Filipino households, celebrated for its hearty flavors and simple preparation. The name “Afritada” hints at the Spanish influence on Filipino cuisine, a legacy from centuries of Spanish colonization. Similar to other tomato-based stews like caldereta and menudo, it brings together the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals with a touch of historical fusion.
Ingredients That Define Afritada
The essence lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients, each contributing to the dish’s unique flavor profile. At its core, the stew consists of chicken pieces simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This foundation is elevated by the addition of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and green peas or chickpeas. These vegetables not only add texture and color but also enhance the stew’s nutritional value. To infuse a savory depth, grated cheese is incorporated, making the dish creamy and indulgent. The beauty of the dish lies in its versatility—you can use any part of the chicken, whether it’s breast, thigh, or drumstick, based on your preference.
The Spanish Influence on Filipino Cuisine
The historical connection between Spanish and Filipino cuisines is evident in many beloved Filipino dishes. During Spain’s 333-year rule over the Philippines, Spanish culinary techniques and ingredients were introduced, blending seamlessly with native cooking practices. Tomato-based stews like afritada, caldereta, and menudo reflect this fusion, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Filipino cooks. The use of tomato sauce, a staple in Spanish cooking, became a prominent feature in Filipino stews, adding a tangy sweetness that complements the savory flavors of meats and vegetables.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking
Creating the dish at home is a straightforward process that yields delicious results with minimal effort. Begin by sautéing garlic and onion until their aromas fill the kitchen. Next, add the chicken pieces, allowing them to cook for about five minutes until they start to brown. Incorporate patis (fish sauce) into the mix, stirring until it evaporates, which enhances the umami flavor of the dish. Pour in tomato sauce and water, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer. This gentle cooking method ensures the chicken becomes tender and flavorful.
As the chicken nears doneness, add diced carrots and potatoes, allowing them to cook until soft. The next addition is grated cheese, green peas, black pepper, bay leaf, and bell peppers. These ingredients infuse the stew with layers of flavor and color, making it visually appealing and tasty. After a brief simmer to meld all the flavors together, the dishis ready to be served hot, typically over steamed rice.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Afritada
It is not only a comfort food but also a nutritious meal option. The inclusion of various vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, which are beneficial for eye health, while potatoes offer a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Bell peppers add a boost of vitamin C, enhancing the body’s immune function. The chicken itself is a lean protein source, making the dish a wholesome choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Tips for a Perfect Afritada
To achieve the best results when cooking, consider a few key tips. First, ensure that the chicken is sautéed until it begins to brown, as this step locks in the flavors and adds a deeper taste to the stew. Using patis or fish sauce not only seasons the dish but also adds an authentic Filipino touch. When adding the tomato sauce, allow it to simmer long enough to develop a rich, concentrated flavor. Lastly, don’t rush the simmering process—slow cooking allows the ingredients to blend harmoniously, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful stew.
Historical Tidbits: The Origin of Afritada
The word “afritada” is derived from the Spanish word “fritada,” which means fried. This term likely refers to the initial step of frying or sautéing the meat and aromatics before simmering them in the sauce. The adaptation of this technique into Filipino cooking highlights the ingenious way Filipinos have incorporated foreign influences into their culinary traditions. This blend of frying and simmering creates a depth of flavor that defines afritada, making it a beloved dish across generations.
Embracing Tradition
This iconic is more than just a meal; it is a culinary journey that bridges past and present, Spanish influence, and Filipino ingenuity. This tomato-based chicken stew is a testament to the rich, diverse flavors that characterize Filipino cuisine. By preparing and enjoying, we not only savor a delicious dish but also celebrate the cultural heritage and history that make Filipino food so unique and cherished. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, it invites you to experience the warmth and comfort of Filipino home cooking.
How to Cook Chicken Afritada
Ingredients
- 1/2 kilo chicken legs or thigh chop into serving pieces
- 1 pc large onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 to 2 Tbsp. patis
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 medium size carrot cut into wedges
- 1 medium sized potato quartered
- 1/2 cup cooked green peas or chick peas garbanzos
- 1/3 cup grated cheese
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 2 pcs bay leaf
- 1 pc green or red bell pepper slice into squares
- 2 Tbsp. cooking oil
Instructions
How to cook Chicken Afritada:
- Saute garlic and onion until fragrant. Then add the chicken and saute for 5 minutes.
- Add patis and stir cook until the patis has evaporated, then add the tomato sauce and water.
- Bring to a boil then simmer until the chicken is tender and almost cooked.
- Add carrots and potatoes. Simmer again until carrot and potatoes are cooked.
- Add the cheese, green peas, black pepper, bay leaf and bell peppers and simmer for another 3 minutes. Serve hot.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips:
Sauté for Flavor Depth When making chicken afritada, ensure you sauté the garlic and onion until they are golden and aromatic. This step is crucial as it forms the flavor base for the entire dish. Properly browned onions and garlic add a rich, savory depth that enhances the stew's overall taste. Perfect Simmering After adding the tomato sauce and water, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. Avoid rushing this step to ensure a well-blended, flavorful dish. Vegetables at the Right Time Add the carrots and potatoes after the chicken has simmered and is nearly tender. These vegetables need time to cook through without becoming mushy, maintaining their texture and contributing to the stew's heartiness. Finally, add the bell peppers and green peas towards the end to retain their vibrant color and slight crunch.
I tried your chicken afritada yesterday and I was not disappointed. In fact it was delicious and as I’ve expected! Thanks for the recipe!
Hi Eddie, I’m glad it turns out well. I hope you will also try my other recipes as well!