Cafriela

What it really is

Cafriela is a Guinea-Bissau seasoned chicken preparation commonly cooked over a grill, often served with lemon, chilli and onion. The details depend on the kitchen, and the name may cover other proteins in some presentations.

This entry describes the chicken version. Chicken is seasoned and grilled, then served with or flavored by lemon, onion and chilli. These ingredients can form a sauce or be used as seasoning, but there is no fixed marinade, cut, heat level or cooking time. Some presentations use lamb instead; that should be identified separately rather than called chicken cafriela. The dish name is useful alongside a clear description of the protein and preparation.

Grilling gives the chicken browned surfaces and a smoky flavor, while lemon contributes acidity. Chilli can range from mild to hot, and onion may be cooked or served fresh. A side dish is not fixed by the name and should be stated by the restaurant. The menu should distinguish the meat preparation from its accompaniment and avoid implying that every version uses the same sauce.

How it's served

Serve the grilled chicken hot with its lemon, onion and chilli preparation. State whether these are mixed into a sauce or served as garnish. Identify rice, starch or vegetables separately.

How to write it on the menu

Name chicken and the cooking method, then specify lemon, chilli and onion as actually used. Confirm oil, marinade and sides with the kitchen. Allergen information and nutrition should be based on the restaurant's recipe, not the name alone.