Savour the classic one-pot comfort of Istambu with whole chicken

The combination of simple ingredients, slow cooking, and traditional flavours makes istambu a truly authentic, South African dish.

January 7, 2025

Supplied Content 1 minute read

Savour the classic one-pot comfort of Istambu with whole chicken — Whether you’re familiar with South African cuisine or trying it for the first time, istambu with whole chicken is a dish that embodies the warmth and soul of traditional cooking. Image credit: Astral Chicken

Istambu with whole chicken is a classic South African one-pot dish that brings together the hearty flavours of samp and beans with the tender, seasoned goodness of a whole chicken.

Traditionally, Istambu was prepared as a communal dish, often cooked over an open fire in a large pot, making it suitable for feeding large groups at family gatherings, ceremonies, or celebrations. Over time, the dish evolved to incorporate different ingredients and cooking techniques.

The beauty of Istambu lies in its simplicity, transforming basic ingredients into a filling meal with minimal effort. Recipe compliments of Astral Chicken.

Ingredients

1 packet (500g) samp and beans
2.5 litres water
1 t (5 ml) salt
2 chicken stock cubes
1 bay leaf
1 whole chicken
1 Tbsp (15 ml) chicken spice

Method

1. To make the istambu, soak the samp and beans in 3 cups water for 2–3 hours or overnight.

2. Once the samp is hydrated, place in a saucepan add the beans, salt, stock cubes, bay leaf and remaining water and bring to a boil.

3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for an hour.

4. Season the chicken well and pop on top of the samp and beans, add the lid and cook for another 45 minutes to an hour stirring gently so the samp doesn’t burn and the chicken stays whole.

January 7, 2025

Supplied Content 1 minute read

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