Chicken pastrama

Name: Chicken pastrama
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; chicken fat; 1 large head of garlic; sweet paprika; allspice; thyme; salt; pepper; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 2 large cups of water for brine; new string for tying.

Meat - Chicken pastrama by Renata M. - Recipia

Chicken pastrama is a dish that evokes family meals, the tastes and aromas that delight our childhood. It is a type of food that combines the rich flavors of spices with the juicy meat of chicken, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Moreover, it is not only delicious but also a perfect choice for a packed lunch or a special dinner. Let’s discover together how you can prepare this delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen! Preparation time: 30 minutes (plus 24 hours for marinating) Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Total time: 25 hours Servings: 4 Ingredients - 2 large chicken breasts - 1 large head of garlic - 2 tablespoons of olive oil - 1 teaspoon of salt - 1 teaspoon of pepper - 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika - 1/2 teaspoon of allspice - 1/2 teaspoon of thyme - 2 large cups of water for brine - Chicken fat (or lard) - New string for tying Instructions Step 1: Preparing the brine Start by preparing the brine. In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of water with salt, pepper, allspice, and thyme. Add a head of garlic, lightly crushed with a knife, to release the flavors. This will be the base that gives flavor to your chicken. Mix the ingredients well until the salt is completely dissolved. Step 2: Marinating the chicken Submerge the chicken breast in the prepared brine, ensuring it is completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours. This long marination will make the meat more tender and enhance the flavors. Step 3: Preparing for baking After 24 hours, remove the chicken breast from the brine and gently pat it dry with a paper towel. Generously rub it with chicken fat, which will add extra flavor. Sprinkle sweet paprika over the entire surface of the chicken to give it a beautiful color and delicate taste. Step 4: Tying and placing in the pan Use the string to tie the chicken breast so that it retains its shape during baking. Place it in a ceramic pot (or any other oven-safe dish). Pour the brine over the chicken and add an extra cup of water, so that the liquid reaches the middle of the meat. Step 5: Baking Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the chicken breast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Every 30 minutes, use a skewer to poke the meat and baste it with the brine from the dish. This will ensure even cooking and intensified flavor. Halfway through the baking time, turn the chicken breast over to achieve even browning. Step 6: Cooling and serving Once the chicken is well-cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pot for 10-15 minutes. Then, slice it and serve it alongside fresh red onion, pickles, or salads. This chicken pastrama is also perfect for sandwiches or to be enjoyed with a side of mustard. Useful tips - Fat option: If you don’t have chicken fat, you can use butter or olive oil to rub the meat. However, chicken fat adds an authentic, specific taste. - Optional spices: Experiment with other spices, such as rosemary or oregano, to customize the flavor of the pastrama. - Serving: This chicken pastrama pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or craft beer for a truly special meal. Nutritional benefits Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Additionally, garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to a strong immune system. Furthermore, making chicken pastrama at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unhealthy additives. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, the recipe can be adapted to use pork or beef, but the marinating and baking times will vary. 2. How can I store chicken pastrama? Chicken pastrama can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for later use. 3. Is it possible to make chicken pastrama without brine? Although brine provides a rich flavor, you can try marinating the chicken with spices and olive oil for a quicker version. Chicken pastrama is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or add it to your lunch pack, the result will always be delicious. So let’s get cooking and enjoy the aromas that will envelop our kitchen!

Chicken pastrama

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