The Global Reader

Every place has just that certain special comfort food that will always cure what ails you. In this case especially if what ails you is a hangover…

Chicken Souse is often served in the morning, after a night out on the town. Regardless of when- or why- you make it, you’ll be pleased with the results. Comforting, super flavorful and easy to prepare, it’s food to make your soul happy.

Chicken Souse

Adapted from a recipe at http://bahamamamakitchen.com/2012/02/02/bahamian-chicken-souse-recipe/

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken cut into pieces
• 1 1/2 cups of fresh lime juice (takes about six to eight large limes. Good quality bottled is ok, too)
• 1  habanero, cut into thin slivers
• 2 tbsp whole allspice
• 2 tbsp salt
• 2 tbsp seasoned salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2-3 large potatoes, chopped into chunks
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 sticks of celery, chopped
• 4 bay leaves
• Extra lime slices for serving

Instructions

1. Place chicken in large enough dish that each piece has its own space.
2. Mix lime, salts, hot peppers, black pepper, all spice and bay leaves. Pour over chicken. Marinate for at least an hour, preferably two.
3. Transfer all ingredients to a large stock pot and cover completely with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and continue cooking at least 30 minutes, or until meat falls off the bone & potatoes are cooked through.
4. Serve with lime slices and warm, buttered Johnny Cake on the side
5. Note: don’t eat the allspice!

Johnny Cake

Adapted from a recipe at http://bahamamamakitchen.com/2012/06/25/bahamian-johnny-cake-recipe/

Ingredients

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup cornmeal
• ¼ cup sugar (can add more, less or even omit)
• 3 tsp oil ( I used a standard vegetable oil)
• 1 cup milk or water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375
2. In a medium to large mixing bowl, whisk dry ingredients together,
3. Add oil and milk (or water). Knead together gently, taking care not to over-mix. Dough will be on the sticky side.
4. Place dough in greased 8 inch baking dish
5. Let sit for 30 minutes, covered with a clean towel.
6. Put in preheated oven and  bake 30 minutes, or until golden brown.