We all have our weaknesses – that one thing we absolutely crave. We never eat out, simply because we can’t afford it, and I have an objection to spending 300 bucks on one meal, when I could feed my family for a week on that same amount, or less. Hubby, however, has a huge weakness – NANDO’S! He absolutely loves their food, the hotter the better. He will sit there, sweat pouring off him, and declare the food delicious. While I too have a masochistic streak, it does not extend to having the living hell burnt out of my mouth!
Kiddo and I lean towards the lemon and herb chicken, or the medium for me ( I too like hot food, but not hot enough to kill – I am sure there are less painful ways to commit suicide!:) I have done the whole take-out-fake-out thing, where you try to recreate your favourite take out meal. This is the answer to the Nando’s problem. I usually marinade the chicken overnight (just chuck it in the sauce frozen, place in fridge), and then cook it when I get home from work the next night. I usually serve with my fake-out rice or chips. Hubby gets his Nando’s (his is hot – recipe will be posted later in the week), and I am happy because I don’t have to fork out a small fortune for one meal.
Ingredients:
3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1 large chilli (de-seeded)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium onion, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lemon (or two tablespoons lemon juice)
Juice of 1 Lime (or two tablespoons lime juice)
1 teaspoon dry or three teaspoons fresh coriander
1 Teaspoon dry or three teaspoons fresh thyme1
1 Teaspoon dry or three teaspoons fresh marjoram
1 Teaspoon dry or three teaspoons fresh oregano
1 teaspoon dry or three teaspoons fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon of wine (good quality – taste it first, around half a glass – it it’s drinkable, then it’s good for food!)
1-2 tablespoons of water (Depending on the thickness you like)
Method
Blend everything together in a blender/ processor or with your hand blender. If necessary, add a little more water until you reach a consistency that you are happy with.
***The chicken takes on the flavour better if marinaded overnight. You can then pan fry, oven bake or even use the indoor grill to cook the chicken. For the really authentic taste, feel free to start a fire and flame-grill away:)