Description:
A comforting, homestyle dish where chicken gizzards are simmered slowly with onions, tomatoes, and vegetables until tender. Popular across many African households, this stew is hearty, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavour.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
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1 kg chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
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2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice (for soaking)
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2 tbsp sunflower or canola oil
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2 onions, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium tomatoes, grated or chopped
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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2 carrots, chopped into rounds
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1 green pepper, chopped
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp curry powder
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp black pepper
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2 cups water or chicken stock
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Fresh coriander (for garnish)
Tools Needed:
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Sharp knife & chopping board
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Large bowl (for soaking gizzards)
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Heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan
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Wooden spoon
Process:
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Prepare the Gizzards: Rinse and soak gizzards in water with vinegar or lemon juice for 30 minutes to soften. Drain and pat dry.
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Brown the Gizzards: Heat oil in the pot. Add gizzards and sear for 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Base: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, curry powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook down into a sauce.
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Build the Stew: Return gizzards to the pot. Add carrots, green pepper, and stock. Stir and bring to a simmer.
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Simmer: Cover and cook on low for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until gizzards are tender and sauce thickens.
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Finish & Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
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With pap or sadza for a traditional meal
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With steamed rice
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With bread or chapati to soak up the sauce
Storage Info:
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Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
