Cooking Surinamese Pom: A Flavorful Baked Dish with Chicken and Root Vegetables

Surinamese Pom is a beloved dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Suriname. This baked casserole combines tender chicken with a medley of root vegetables, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to prepare this delightful dish, along with tips and variations to make it your own.

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What is Surinamese Pom?

Surinamese Pom is a traditional dish made primarily from pomtajer (also known as tayer or yautia), a starchy root vegetable similar to taro. The dish is typically layered with marinated chicken, onions, and spices, then baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a savory, creamy casserole that is both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make Surinamese Pom, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Pom:

  • 2 lbs of pomtajer (or substitute with taro)
  • 1 lb of chicken (thighs or breasts)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of thyme
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons of butter

• For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

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1. Prepare the Chicken

• Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

2. Cook the Pomtajer

• Peel and Boil: Peel the pomtajer and cut it into chunks. Boil in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let it cool slightly.

• Mash the Pom: Once cooled, mash the pomtajer until smooth. You can add a little chicken broth to achieve a creamy consistency.

3. Assemble the Dish

• Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the mashed pomtajer at the bottom. Add the marinated chicken and chopped onions on top. Pour the remaining mashed pomtajer over the chicken, smoothing it out.

4. Bake

• Add Butter and Broth: Dot the top with butter and pour the chicken broth over the entire dish. This will keep it moist while baking.

• Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.

5. Serve

• Garnish and Enjoy: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Surinamese Pom with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

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Tips for Perfecting Your Pom

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it before serving.

Conclusion

Surinamese Pom is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its combination of tender chicken and creamy root vegetables, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and enjoy the rich flavors of Surinamese cuisine!

For any questions or further assistance, feel free to chat with Mavyn GPT or connect with one of our human experts. We’re here to help you with all your cooking queries!

Happy cooking!