Introduction

Jamie Oliver’s Dukkah Roast Chicken with Smashed Aubergine is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings a unique twist to traditional roast chicken. The vibrant flavors of the Middle Eastern spice blend, dukkah, beautifully complement the tender chicken, while the smashed aubergine offers a creamy, smoky side that elevates the entire meal. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, showcasing both culinary flair and comfort.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg or 3.3 lbs)
Dukkah: 4 tablespoons of dukkah spice mix
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, plus extra for drizzling
Aubergine (eggplant): 2 medium-sized
Garlic: 3 cloves, peeled
Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
Fresh parsley: a small bunch, chopped
Salt and black pepper: to taste

Prep Time

Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This includes seasoning the chicken and preparing the aubergine for roasting.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The total time, including prep and cooking, is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for a hearty family meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C). Ensure the chicken is at room temperature, then pat it dry with paper towels. Rub a generous amount of olive oil over the chicken skin and season generously with salt and pepper.

Make Dukkah Spice Mix

In a dry frying pan, toast hazelnuts, sesame seeds, and cumin seeds until they are golden brown and fragrant. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then crush it with a pestle and mortar or pulse it in a blender until coarsely ground.

Season the Chicken with Dukkah

Sprinkle the prepared dukkah mix evenly over the chicken. Make sure to cover the whole surface for maximum flavor.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting tray and roast it in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the juices run clear when pierced at the thigh.

Make Smashed Aubergine

While the chicken is roasting, prepare the aubergines. Cut them in half lengthwise and grill or roast them until the flesh is soft and slightly charred.

Mix the Aubergine

Scoop the flesh out of the cooked aubergines into a bowl. Mash it with a fork and season with salt, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix until smooth.

Serve the Dish

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Carve the chicken and serve it on a platter alongside the smashed aubergine, drizzled with olive oil and garnished with any additional dukkah if desired.

Notes

Alternative Cooking Methods

This recipe can also be adapted for grilling or cooking on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, use the dukkah spice mix to season roasted vegetables instead of chicken.

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The smashed aubergine is best consumed fresh, but can be kept for a day in the fridge.

Dukkah Shelf Life

The dukkah spice mix can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. You can make it in advance to save time.

Cook techniques

Roasting

Roasting is a technique that involves cooking food evenly in an oven, allowing it to caramelize and develop a rich flavor. For the dukkah roast chicken, the high temperature helps to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat.

Spicing

Spicing refers to the application of various herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the dish. In this recipe, dukkah—a blend of nuts, seeds, and spices—is used to coat the chicken, creating a unique and aromatic crust.

Smashing

Smashing involves crushing or mashing ingredients to create a different texture. In this recipe, aubergines are smashed to form a creamy base for the chicken, adding depth and flavor to the dish.

Drizzling

Drizzling is a technique often used to add a finishing touch to dishes. In this recipe, olive oil is drizzled over the smashed aubergine, enhancing its richness and adding moisture.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of nut in the dukkah?

Yes, you can substitute different nuts depending on your preference, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor profile slightly.

Is there a vegetarian option for the smashed aubergine?

Absolutely! You can enjoy smashed aubergine on its own as a side dish without the chicken, making it a flavorful vegetarian option.

How long should I roast the chicken?

The roasting time varies based on the size of the chicken, but generally, it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes for a whole chicken to be cooked through.

Can I prepare the dukkah in advance?

Yes, the dukkah can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for several weeks, making it convenient for later use.

What is the best way to serve the dish?

The dukkah roast chicken is best served with the smashed aubergine and can be accompanied by a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The Dukkah roast chicken with smashed aubergine offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. The aromatic spices of the dukkah blend beautifully with the juicy chicken, while the creamy, roasted aubergine adds a rich depth to the dish. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of chicken but also introduces exciting new flavor profiles that can impress guests or make a family dinner memorable.

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