Marcus Samuelsson

This creamy, complex-tasting dish from chef Marcus Samuelsson relies on assertive African flavors like berbere (an Ethiopian spice mix) and coconut milk. Don’t leave out the habanero—it’s not too hot because it’s seeded, and it adds a fruity, tropical flavor.

This tart and fiery condiment by Marcus Samuelsson was inspired by the sambal of Cape Malay cooking, brought to South Africa by Indonesian and Malaysian slaves.

Marcus Samuelsson’s curry-laced chutney reflects India’s influence on East African cooking. Honey makes the chutney slightly sweet, and sesame seeds, sprinkled over the top just before serving, add crunch.

"Coconut connects with my African roots," says Ethiopian-born Marcus Samuelsson about a key ingredient in F&W's Challenge. The Top Chef Masters winner also had to use pickled peppers and chicken.

The slave trade left a strong African imprint on Brazilian cuisine, which is why Marcus Samuelsson chose to serve this classic Brazilian cocktail at his African-themed party. In his version, however, he muddles cranberries along with the usual lime and replaces the Brazilian spirit cachaça (made from sugarcane juice) with Scandinavian aquavit (an infused spirit).

Lamb, says Marcus Samuelsson, is one of Africa’s most popular meats. Here, he butterflies a leg to help it cook more quickly and rubs it with paprika, ancho chile and ground cardamom—recalling the fiery Mozambique condiment piri-piri.

For centuries, farmers have been growing rice in Senegal, on the western coast of Africa, where it’s a staple food. Here, Marcus Samuelsson uses it to create an utterly luxurious pudding, brightening the creamy flavor with grated lime zest, vanilla and cubes of fresh mango.

Marcus Samuelsson drew on African staples like yams and okra to create this completely original recipe of roasted sweet potatoes tossed with red potatoes, wilted spinach and sautéed okra. Toasted mustard seeds and a caper vinaigrette give this delicious salad a nutty, tangy flavor.

To balance the heartier dishes on his menu, Marcus Samuelsson stirred ginger and turmeric into this vegetable side dish to give it a kick, then added cream and buttermilk to smooth and soften the spicy flavors. This easy recipe can be made well ahead of time and would be fantastic with any kind of feast—including Thanksgiving.