Yassa Ganar de Banjul (Gambian Char-Grilled Chicken in Caramelized Onion, Lime & Mustard Sauce) – Authentic Gambia Recipe

Ingredients for Yassa Ganar de Banjul (Gambian Char-Grilled Chicken in Caramelized Onion, Lime & Mustard Sauce) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) char-seared chicken thighs, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups 4 large onions sliced and caramelized, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup green olives and steamed white rice
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with juice of 3 limes
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Gambia seasoning (Dijon mustard, garlic, ginger, black pepper, bay leaf)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a heavy Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat; brown char-seared chicken thighs for 5 minutes.
2. Add minced onion, garlic, juice of 3 limes, and Dijon mustard, garlic, ginger, black pepper, bay leaf, stirring for 2 minutes until deeply aromatic.
3. Add 4 large onions sliced and caramelized and pour in the braising liquid; bring to a lively simmer.
4. Cover and braise over medium-low heat for 20–22 minutes until meltingly tender and the sauce is rich and glossy.
5. Stir in green olives and steamed white rice right before serving warm.