Muamba de galinha

Muamba de galinha or chicken muamba is a Central African dish made with chicken, red palm oil sauce called muamba de dendem, garlic, okra and hot chile pepper. Palm oil gives the dish a specific flavor, while lycopene provides the red color. Studies have shown its various health benefits – it is rich in antioxidants, helpful in preventing heart disease, and regulates cholesterol. Since that part of Africa was a Portuguese colony for ages, Portuguese gastronomy had a great influence on the local cuisine, so as a result, many dishes are based on meat and palm oil. It can be made in spicy or mild versions, depending on personal preferences. The dish is traditionally accompanied by fungee (a starchy food prepared by boiling and stirring corn or cassava into a porridge) and tender cooked beans seasoned with palm oil and salt.