Chicken ciulama

Name: Chicken ciulama
Ingredients: 6 chicken drumsticks; 1 onion; 100-150 ml tomato juice; 4 cloves of garlic; 2 tablespoons of flour; 100-150 ml milk; salt; pepper; fresh parsley; green celery

Meat - Chicken ciulama by Mariuca G. - Recipia

Chicken Ciulama - A Traditional Delight with a Homey Flavor When we think of the joys of cooking, chicken ciulama is certainly a dish that evokes pleasant memories, from warm childhood meals to gatherings with loved ones. This recipe is not just a dish, but a true culinary hug, full of comforting flavors and textures. In the following paragraphs, I will guide you step by step to prepare a delicious chicken ciulama that will leave everyone in awe. Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes Number of Servings: 4 Essential Ingredients: - 6 chicken thighs - 1 large onion - 100-150 ml tomato juice (preferably freshly squeezed) - 4 garlic cloves - 2 tablespoons flour - 100-150 ml milk (whole milk for a creamier texture) - Salt and pepper to taste - A handful of finely chopped parsley - 1 stalk of celery (optional, but recommended for added flavor) Preparing the Chicken Ciulama 1. Preparing the Chicken: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under a stream of cold water. This step is important to remove any impurities. After washing, place the meat in a large pot, adding a little olive oil or sunflower oil. Heat the pot over medium heat and place the thighs to brown evenly on all sides. This technique will add a note of flavor to the dish. 2. Adding the Onion: Once the thighs are browned, add the finely chopped onion. Stir occasionally and let the onion soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The onion not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pleasant aroma to the ciulama. 3. Deglazing with Tomato Juice: When the onion is ready, it’s time to deglaze the dish with the tomato juice. Choose a fresh, high-quality tomato juice for an authentic taste. Then cover the meat with water, leaving a space of 2-3 fingers above. Add the finely chopped celery for extra flavor. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat until the meat is tender and easily separates from the bone, about 30-40 minutes. 4. Preparing the Cream Sauce: In a separate dish, combine the flour with the milk, mixing well to avoid lumps. It is essential to mix well to achieve a creamy sauce. Once the meat is cooked, add the flour and milk mixture to the pot, stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce, turning the ciulama into a delicacy. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 5. Seasoning and Finishing the Dish: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, let the sauce cool for about 10 minutes, then add the crushed garlic mixed with a little water. It is important not to add the garlic too early, so as not to alter its aroma. Mix well and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. Practical Tips: - If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a little white wine, either during the browning of the chicken or when deglazing with the tomato juice. - Instead of celery, you can experiment with carrots or even bell peppers for a personalized taste. - This chicken ciulama pairs perfectly with warm polenta, but you can also opt for mashed potatoes or rice. Nutritional Benefits: Chicken ciulama is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken meat, while celery and parsley provide essential vitamins and minerals. The flour and milk contribute to a creamy texture, but it is good to be cautious with the amount of salt to maintain a balanced diet. Frequently Asked Questions: - Can I use turkey meat instead of chicken? Yes, turkey meat will provide a leaner but equally tasty option. - How can I make chicken ciulama gluten-free? You can replace the flour with cornstarch or almond flour, being careful to adjust the quantities to achieve the desired consistency. - What other recipes can I try with chicken ciulama? You can combine ciulama with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or, for dessert, with a seasonal fruit tart. A personal note: In my home, chicken ciulama was often prepared on cool autumn days, served with steaming polenta and a glass of white wine. This combination created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that brought us all together at the table. Now that you know how to prepare a delicious chicken ciulama, all that’s left is to get cooking. Each step is an opportunity to transform simple ingredients into something truly special. Enjoy your meal!

Chicken ciulama

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