Whenever I am asked what my favorite food is, the first thing that comes to mind is usually "nothing". For many years, that answer remained unchanged. It is not because I dislike food or because my taste buds are too difficult to please. Rather, I have been fortunate enough to enjoy a wide variety of dishes ranging from traditional meals to continental cuisines. Over the years, I've tasted countless meals, each with its own unique flavour, preparation style and even cultural significance. Some meals impressed me because of their rich taste and as a result, choosing a single favorite meal always feels almost impossible.
Food to me isn't always about the satisfaction, sometimes, it's an experience. Different meals appeal to me for different reasons and my preferences have changed over time. There was a period when I couldn't get enough of Afang soup. At another time, I preferred rice and chicken pepper soup. On some other days, a plate of roasted plantain and well made protein sauce would seem more appealing than anything else. I believe this is because my tastes were and are still evolving.
However, in recent months, one simple meal has steadily climbed to the top of my list: coconut rice and chicken. This is not a very expensive meal, neither is it very extravagant. Yet, there is something incredibly satisfying about it that keeps drawing me back. Whether I prepare it myself or order it from a restaurant, a properly made plate of coconut rice with chicken rarely disappoints.
Before discussing the rice itself, I must first talk about the role of chicken in this combination. If chicken could receive a special award in my food rankings, it would. Whether grilled, fried or roasted, chicken as a source of protein is one of my favourites. Personally, I find that chicken complements coconut rice exceptionally well because its savoury flavour balances the richness and creaminess of the rice. Together, they create a meal that feels complete.
Throwing the spotlight back on coconut rice, it is a dish that has been enjoyed in many parts of the world for generations. Different cultures have their own variations, each adding their own unique flavours and ingredients. But, at its core, coconut rice is simply a type of rice cooked in coconut milk or coconut infused liquids.
Personally, I prefer coconut rice made with coconut milk because this just makes the flavour deeper, richer and more pronounced. Whenever I prepare coconut rice at home, I like to add cinnamon sticks. This is a personal touch that enhances the overall flavour of the meal. The cinnamon does not overpower the coconut flavour but compliments it beautifully.
One thing I like about coconut rice is it's texture. Unlike some rice dishes that can be dry or bland, coconut rice has a natural creaminess that makes every spoon enjoyable. This creaminess isn't overwhelming or too heavy.
Another aspect that makes coconut rice appealing is it's aroma. Even before eating, the scent of the rice fills the room. Just recently, I took a plate of coconut rice to work and the moment I opened my plate to eat, my colleagues already knew what I was having. The meal didn't need any formal introduction.
In many ways, this meal has a distinct personality. It stands confidently on its own without the need to imitate other rice dishes. These days, whenever I have the opportunity to decide what to eat, I go for this dish. However, food preferences can change and maybe in a few months from now, another dish may capture my attention. But, this is the beauty of exploring different cuisines and flavours.
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