Yassa (food)
Chicken yassa | |
| Course | Main |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Senegal |
| Region or state | West Africa |
| Associated cuisine | Senegalese cuisine |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Poultry, fish or lamb, onions, lemon, and mustard |
Yassa is a spicy dish prepared with onions, lemon or mustard and marinated poultry, fish, or lamb. Originally from Senegal, it has become popular throughout West Africa. Other names for chicken yassa include yassa au poulet (in French) and yassa ganaar. The term "yassa" refers to the method of cooking (marinated and stewed), while "guinar" means chicken in Wolof, the national language of Senegal. Yassa Guinar is commonly prepared in the southern region of Casamance and across other parts of West Africa. It is one of the most iconic dishes of Senegalese cuisine and is known for its tangy, savory flavor, derived from its distinctive onion and citrus-based sauce.