Apricots have been cultivated in Armenia, Iran and parts of India since ancient times, although the fruit's exact origin remains unknown. They were brought to Greece by Alexander the Great, while in 17th-century England, apricot oil was used to treat swelling and ulcers. Apricots are also rich in fibre and antioxidants, and are good for your blood, skin and heart health.
Sunera Perera, chef at McGettigan's JBR in Dubai, says: "Apricots are one of my favourite fruits because they are an excellent source of vitamin A (in the form of pro-vitamin A carotenoids), and a good source of vitamin C, copper, dietary fibre and potassium. During Ramadan, it is essential for everyone fasting to consume nutritional dishes that will provide them with essential vitamins and nutrients to nourish them during the day. This sage-and-apricot-stuffed chicken, made with
a dash of honey, is a tasty and easy-to-make dish that people can share and enjoy."
Sage-and-apricot-stuffed chicken breast (Serves two)
Ingredients for the stuffing
75g brown onion
3g thyme
20g butter
20g dry apricots
40g breadcrumbs
3g orange zest
10g sage
Ingredients for the chicken
2 pieces of chicken breast
80g turkey bacon
Ingredients for the accompaniments
200g potatoes
20g garlic, chopped
125g carrots
10g honey
Method for the stuffing
To prepare the stuffing, first slowly cook the brown onion and thyme in butter to enhance the flavour. Add the apricot and cook further to extract the fruit's richness.
Add fresh breadcrumbs to bind all the flavours and finish the stuffing with orange zest and sage, along with seasoning.
Method for the chicken
Stuff the chicken breasts and wrap with turkey bacon to keep them moist.
Slow-cook the chicken sous-vide for two hours. Finally, cook the chicken in the oven for seven to 10 minutes to give it a crispy taste.
Serving suggestion
Cook the potatoes with garlic and carrots in honey, and serve these as accompaniments.
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[ My key ingredient: avocados ]
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