Yassa Guinar

Yassa Guinar is a traditional Senegalese dish made with chicken, onions, and lemon marinade, commonly prepared in the southern region of Casamance and across other parts of West Africa. It is one of the most iconic dishes of Senegalese cuisine and is known for its tangy, savory flavor, derived from its distinctive onion and citrus-based sauce. The term "Yassa" refers to the method of cooking (marinated and stewed), while "Guinar" means chicken in Wolof, the national language of Senegal.

Ingredients

While variations exist, a standard recipe includes:

• Chicken (usually cut into serving pieces)
• Onions (large quantity, often 4–6 large onions per chicken)
• Fresh lemon or lime juice
• Dijon mustard or local mustard
• Garlic and chili peppers
• Black pepper and salt
• Vegetable oil
• Bouillon cubes (optional)

Preparation

• Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, mustard, garlic, chili, black pepper, and thinly sliced onions. Let it sit for several hours or overnight.
• Brown the chicken, either by grilling or frying, to add depth of flavor.
• In a large pot, sauté the marinated onions until caramelized and soft.
• Add the browned chicken pieces back to the pot, along with the remaining marinade.
• Simmer the dish until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and flavorful.
• Serve hot, typically over steamed white rice.