Sharkasia Egyptian Chicken in Walnut Sauce

Sharkasia (Egyptian Chicken in Walnut Sauce) Recipe

Sharkasia is a unique Egyptian dish with Turkish origins, featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy walnut sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of nutty flavors and smooth textures, often served with rice to complement its hearty taste. Traditionally prepared for special occasions, Sharkasia offers a luxurious dining experience that highlights Egypt’s diverse culinary influences. The combination of juicy chicken and the silky walnut sauce makes it an unforgettable dish for those who appreciate bold yet delicate flavors.

Ingredients

 

For the Chicken:

  • 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 4 chicken breasts
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

 

For the Walnut Sauce:

  • 1 cup walnuts, finely ground
  • 2 slices white bread (crust removed)
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (from cooking the chicken)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander

 

For Serving:

  • Cooked white rice
  • Toasted pine nuts (for garnish)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

 

Instructions

 

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large pot, add the chicken, water, onion, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  3. Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Strain the broth and set aside for the sauce.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Walnut Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, soak the white bread slices in 1/2 cup of the chicken broth until softened.
  2. In a blender, combine the soaked bread, ground walnuts, and another 1 cup of chicken broth.
  3. Blend until smooth and creamy.

 

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the walnut mixture and stir well.
  4. Add the milk, salt, black pepper, and ground coriander.
  5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

 

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

  1. Add the shredded chicken to the walnut sauce and mix well to coat.
  2. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

 

Step 5: Serve the Sharkasia

  1. Serve the chicken and walnut sauce over a bed of white rice.
  2. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley.
  3. Enjoy warm!

 

Enjoy your homemade Sharkasia! 🍗🥜😋