Poulet DG, which stands for “Directeur Général,” is one of the most popular modern dishes from Cameroon. The name may sound formal, but the meaning is simple. It is often called the “boss’s chicken,” a dish that was once associated with high-status dining, restaurants, and special occasions. Over time, it has become a favorite in many homes.
Poulet DG is a rich and colorful chicken stew made with ripe plantains, vegetables like carrots and green beans, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It is often served with rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
What makes this dish special is the balance of flavors. You have the sweetness of fried plantains, the savory taste of chicken, and the rich, slightly spicy sauce that ties everything together. It is the kind of meal that looks impressive but can be made at home with simple ingredients.
In this article, you will learn how to prepare Poulet DG step by step, along with useful cooking tips, nutrition details, and serving ideas.
What is Poulet DG?
Poulet DG is a one-pot style dish where fried or sautéed chicken is combined with plantains and vegetables in a tomato-based sauce. It is often served during gatherings, celebrations, or when hosting guests.
The name “Directeur Général” reflects its reputation as a dish fit for someone important. But today, anyone can enjoy it at home.
The dish is colorful, rich, and slightly spicy. It is also very filling because it combines protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one meal.
Ingredients
To prepare Poulet DG, you will need a mix of fresh ingredients and basic pantry items.
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 3–4 ripe plantains (yellow, not overly soft)
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 2–3 tomatoes, blended or chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
For Flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1–2 chili peppers (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon black or white pepper
- 1 seasoning cube (optional)
To Serve
- Steamed white rice
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning and preparing everything before cooking. This makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Wash the chicken and cut it into medium pieces. Season with salt, garlic, ginger, and a little onion. Let it sit for some time so the flavors soak in.
Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into medium pieces. They should be ripe but still firm so they hold their shape when cooked.
Wash and slice the carrots. Trim the green beans and cut them into manageable pieces. Blend or chop the tomatoes to make a fresh base for the sauce.
Once everything is ready, you can start cooking.
Cooking the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken in a pot with a little water. Cook it on medium heat until it becomes tender. This step also creates a light broth, which will be useful later.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Keep the broth; it adds flavor to the sauce.
You can lightly fry the cooked chicken in oil until it is golden. This step gives it a richer taste and a slightly crispy surface, but it is optional.
Frying the Plantains
Heat oil in a pan and fry the plantain slices until they turn golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will make them soft instead of crispy.
Remove the fried plantains and place them on paper to drain excess oil. Set them aside. They will be added later to the stew.
Preparing the Sauce
In a large pot or pan, heat a little oil and add sliced onions. Let them cook until soft and slightly golden.
Add garlic and ginger, stirring gently so they do not burn. Then add the blended tomatoes and tomato paste. Let this cook for some time until the raw tomato taste disappears and the mixture thickens.
At this stage, add pepper, chili, and seasoning. Stir well and allow the sauce to develop its flavor.
Bringing the Dish Together
Add the cooked chicken into the sauce. Stir so that the chicken is well coated.
Pour in a little of the chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Let everything simmer gently so the flavors combine.
Add the carrots and green beans. These vegetables should remain slightly firm, so do not overcook them.
Finally, add the fried plantains. Stir gently so they do not break apart. Let the stew cook for a few more minutes so all the ingredients blend together.
Taste and adjust salt or spice as needed. The sauce should be rich and slightly thick, coating the chicken and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Poulet DG is best served hot. It is commonly paired with steamed white rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce.
You can also serve it on its own, as the plantains already provide a carbohydrate element. However, rice makes the meal more complete, especially for larger servings.
When serving, make sure each plate has a mix of chicken, plantains, and vegetables. The colors alone make the dish very appealing.
Taste and Texture
Poulet DG is known for its balanced taste. The plantains bring a gentle sweetness that contrasts with the savory chicken and the slightly spicy sauce.
The vegetables add freshness and a light crunch, while the sauce ties everything together with a rich, tomato-based flavor.
The texture is a mix of soft plantains, tender chicken, and slightly firm vegetables. Each bite offers a combination of flavors and textures that make the dish satisfying.
Nutrition Information
Poulet DG is a balanced meal with a variety of nutrients.
Chicken provides high-quality protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals.
Plantains are a good source of carbohydrates, giving energy. They also contain fiber and potassium.
Carrots and green beans add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These vegetables support overall health and digestion.
Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants, while garlic and ginger offer additional health benefits.
The dish can be made healthier by reducing the amount of oil used, especially when frying the plantains.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 30–40 minutes
Cooking Time: 45–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1.5 hours
The cooking time may vary depending on how tender you want the chicken and how quickly the sauce reduces.
Tips for Home Cooks
Choose ripe but firm plantains. If they are too soft, they will break during cooking. If they are not ripe enough, they will not have the desired sweetness.
Do not overcook the vegetables. They should remain slightly firm to keep their texture and color.
Cook the tomato sauce well. This is important for removing the raw taste and building a deep flavor.
Use the chicken broth wisely. It adds richness but should not make the sauce too watery.
Add the plantains at the end. This helps them keep their shape and prevents them from becoming too soft.
Adjust the spice level according to your preference. The dish should have a mild heat, not overpowering.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can grill or bake the chicken instead of frying it.
Variations of Poulet DG
Some people add bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Others include more vegetables like peas or sweet corn.
In some versions, the chicken is not fried but simply simmered in the sauce. This makes the dish lighter.
You can also use boneless chicken pieces for easier eating, especially if serving children.
The level of spice can also be adjusted. Some prefer a mild version, while others enjoy a stronger, spicier taste.
Why Poulet DG is Special
Poulet DG represents a modern side of Cameroonian cuisine. It combines traditional ingredients like plantains with a more contemporary presentation.
It is a dish often served when you want to impress guests or prepare something special for family. Its colorful appearance and rich flavor make it stand out.
Despite its name and reputation, it is a dish that anyone can prepare at home with simple ingredients and careful cooking.
Final Thoughts
Poulet DG is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together chicken, plantains, and vegetables in a rich, flavorful sauce. It is both comforting and impressive, making it perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can create this beautiful Cameroonian dish in your own kitchen. Serve it with rice, share it with family, and enjoy a meal that is full of flavor and tradition.
