Cooking Afritadang Manok: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Delicious Filipino Dish

Afritadang manok, also known as chicken afritada, is a popular Filipino dish that originated from Spanish cuisine. It is a type of stew made with chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables and spices. This dish is a staple in many Filipino households and is often served during special occasions and celebrations. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook afritadang manok.

Understanding the Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Before we start cooking, it’s essential to understand the ingredients and equipment needed for this dish. Here are the ingredients and equipment you will need:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or legs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium-sized bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup of tomato sauce
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven with a lid
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or strainer

Preparing the Ingredients

Now that we have our ingredients and equipment, let’s start preparing them. Here are the steps to follow:

• Chop the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes. Make sure to chop them into small pieces so that they cook evenly.
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can cut them into small pieces or leave them in larger chunks, depending on your preference.
• Measure the spices and seasonings. Make sure to measure the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) accurately.

Cooking the Afritadang Manok

Now that our ingredients are prepared, let’s start cooking the afritadang manok. Here are the steps to follow:

Browning the Chicken

• Heat the olive oil in the pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.
• Remove the browned chicken from the pot and set it aside. We will add it back to the pot later.

Sauteing the Onions, Garlic, and Bell Pepper

• Add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until they are softened and fragrant.
• Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook until they are softened and the mixture is fragrant.

Adding the Tomato Sauce and Chicken Broth

• Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Adding the Browned Chicken and Spices

• Add the browned chicken back to the pot. Stir well to combine.
• Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Simmering the Afritadang Manok

• Simmer the afritadang manok for 20-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. You can check if the chicken is cooked by cutting into one of the pieces. If it’s still pink, continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, black pepper, or paprika if needed.

Serving the Afritadang Manok

Now that our afritadang manok is cooked, let’s serve it. Here are some suggestions:

• Serve the afritadang manok with steamed rice. This is the traditional way to serve this dish.
• Serve the afritadang manok with steamed vegetables. You can serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Serve the afritadang manok with a side of fried plantains or fried potatoes. This adds a nice crunch to the dish.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind:

• Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes. This will give the dish a fresher flavor.
• Add other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or green beans to the pot. This will add more flavor and nutrients to the dish.
• Use chicken breast or thighs instead of a combination of both. This will change the texture and flavor of the dish.
• Add a splash of vinegar or patis (fish sauce) to the pot. This will add a nice acidity and umami flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Cooking afritadang manok is a straightforward process that requires some preparation and patience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions and celebrations. Remember to use fresh ingredients, cook the chicken until it’s tender, and adjust the seasoning as needed. With these tips and variations, you can create a unique and delicious version of afritadang manok that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Note: You can adjust the quantity of the ingredients based on your personal preference and the number of people you’re serving.

What is Afritadang Manok and where did it originate?

Afritadang Manok is a popular Filipino dish made with chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce. It is a variation of the Spanish dish, chicken fritada, which was introduced to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. Over time, Filipino cooks adapted the recipe to suit local tastes, resulting in the Afritadang Manok we know today.

The dish is a staple in many Filipino households and is often served on special occasions. Its rich and flavorful sauce, combined with tender chicken, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Afritadang Manok is also a versatile dish that can be served with steamed rice or noodles, making it a great option for family meals or gatherings.

What are the main ingredients needed to cook Afritadang Manok?

The main ingredients needed to cook Afritadang Manok include chicken pieces, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and bell peppers. You will also need some tomato paste or tomato sauce, fish sauce or patis, and vinegar to give the dish its signature flavor. Other ingredients like salt, pepper, and sugar are also necessary to balance the flavors.

You can also add other ingredients to customize the dish to your taste. Some people like to add potatoes or carrots to make the dish more substantial, while others prefer to add some heat with chili peppers or hot sauce. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination.

How do I prepare the ingredients for Afritadang Manok?

To prepare the ingredients for Afritadang Manok, start by chopping the onions, garlic, and bell peppers into small pieces. You can also chop the tomatoes, but it’s better to use canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a smoother sauce. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

Make sure to marinate the chicken in a mixture of fish sauce, vinegar, and spices for at least 30 minutes to give it a deeper flavor. You can also prepare the tomato paste or sauce by mixing it with a little water to create a smooth consistency. Having all the ingredients ready before cooking will make the process much easier and faster.

What is the cooking process for Afritadang Manok?

The cooking process for Afritadang Manok starts with sautéing the onions, garlic, and bell peppers in oil until they are soft and fragrant. Then, add the marinated chicken and cook until it is browned on all sides. Next, add the tomato paste or sauce, fish sauce, vinegar, and spices, and stir well to combine.

Let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through. You can also add potatoes or carrots during the last 10 minutes of cooking to make the dish more substantial. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar to taste, and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Can I cook Afritadang Manok in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook Afritadang Manok in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a convenient and hands-off cooking experience. Simply brown the chicken and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker or Instant Pot with the remaining ingredients.

Cooking Afritadang Manok in a slow cooker or Instant Pot can result in a richer and more intense flavor, as the ingredients have more time to meld together. Simply set the cooking time according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let the appliance do the work for you.

How do I serve Afritadang Manok?

Afritadang Manok is best served hot with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a more balanced meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika to add color and freshness to the dish.

You can also serve Afritadang Manok with other Filipino dishes, such as steamed fish or grilled meat, for a more festive meal. The dish is also great for leftovers, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop and serve.

Can I make variations of Afritadang Manok?

Yes, you can make variations of Afritadang Manok to suit your taste preferences. Some people like to add coconut milk or cream to give the dish a richer and creamier sauce. Others prefer to add some heat with chili peppers or hot sauce.

You can also experiment with different protein sources, such as pork or beef, for a different twist on the dish. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients to create your own unique version of Afritadang Manok. The key is to balance the flavors and textures to create a dish that you enjoy.