Aug 25 2026
RestaurantsAyoka African CuisineAyoka Choukouya Recipe

Ayoka Choukouya Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Grilled Chicken or lamb with green pepper, onion and tomato served with optional side

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Ingredients

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Marinade & Protein

Method

Marinade & Protein

  1. 1

    Prepare the protein

    If using chicken thighs, trim excess fat and cut into 1.5–2 inch pieces. If using lamb leg, cut into 1.5–2 inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towel.

  2. 2

    Make the marinade

    In a large bowl combine lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt and black pepper. Whisk until emulsified.

  3. 3

    Marinate

    Add the cut chicken or lamb to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours. If short on time, 30 minutes will still impart flavor.

Vegetable Skewers

  1. 4

    Prep vegetables

    Core and seed the green peppers, then cut into 1.5–2 inch squares. Peel the red onions and cut into wedges about 1–1.5 inches wide (keep root end intact so wedges hold together). Halve or quarter the tomatoes if large so they sit well on skewers but remain firm.

  2. 5

    Season vegetables

    Place the pepper pieces, onion wedges and tomato pieces in a bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sprinkle 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, then toss gently to coat.

  3. 6

    Assemble skewers

    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated protein and seasoned vegetables alternately onto skewers: protein, pepper, onion, tomato, repeat. Leave a little space between items so heat circulates and they cook evenly.

Grilling

  1. 7

    Preheat grill

    Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). Oil the grill grates lightly.

  2. 8

    Grill skewers

    Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–14 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes so all sides char evenly. For chicken: grill until internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). For lamb: grill until medium (63°C / 145°F) or to desired doneness. Vegetables should be tender with light char.

  3. 9

    Finish and rest

    Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Squeeze a little fresh lime over the protein and vegetables if desired.

Optional Side & Garnish

  1. 10

    Serve the Ayoka Choukouya skewers with warm rice or fufu on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and lime wedges. Offer grilled chili or hot sauce for guests who want extra heat.

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