Basc chicken with peppers

Basque Chicken with Peppers - A Recipe Full of Flavors and Tradition

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to a fascinating culinary journey in the heart of the Basque region, a recipe that combines tradition with flavor! Basque Chicken with peppers is a delicacy that has its roots in the rich gastronomy of the mountainous regions, making it a perfect choice for a comforting dinner. This recipe is simple yet full of taste, with the advantage of being flour-free, making it ideal for those following a gluten-free diet.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 chicken cut into pieces (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 700 g bell peppers (red, yellow, green, for a play of colors)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 kg peeled tomatoes (you can use canned tomatoes)
- 1 glass of white wine (choose a quality wine that is pleasant to taste)
- 1 slice of ham (Bayonne or Parma, for an extra flavor)
- 75 g butter
- Fresh herbs (parsley, lovage, rosemary)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- A pinch of cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste

A brief story about the recipe:

Basque Chicken with peppers was inspired by the culinary traditions of the region, where nature provides fresh and flavorful ingredients, and local communities proudly preserve recipes passed down through generations. This recipe proves to be not only a tasty dish but also a way to celebrate local culture and customs. During the Tour de France, the caravan passed through these picturesque regions, and popular recipes became a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.

Preparation techniques:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken into suitable pieces. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand to make the cooking process as smooth as possible. Clean and chop the garlic, and the peppers should be washed and cut into cubes.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes golden and shiny. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent burning.

3. Adding the spices: Add the pinch of cloves, salt, and then the peeled tomatoes and chopped peppers. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This step will allow the vegetables to release their flavors and form a delicious sauce.

4. Preparing the chicken: In another skillet, melt 75 g of butter and add the chicken pieces and diced ham. Brown the chicken on all sides, adding salt and pepper to taste. This will create a delicious crust that will enhance the final flavor of the dish. Make sure the chicken is well-cooked and browned for a perfect texture.

5. The final combination: Once both mixtures are ready, add the browned chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the glass of white wine and add the chopped herbs (parsley, lovage, rosemary). Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for another 30 minutes. The aroma of the wine will perfectly combine with the vegetables and meat, resulting in a dish with a deep flavor.

6. Serving: Serve the chicken hot, alongside the delicious vegetables and sauce formed. A wonderful idea is to add roasted peppers as a garnish, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors. You can decorate the plate with fresh herbs for an attractive appearance.

Useful tips for a perfect result:

- Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the ingredients is key to a tasty dish. Buy seasonal vegetables and chicken from a trusted supplier.
- Taste along the way: Don’t forget to taste the dish while cooking, adjusting the spices to your preferences.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables to the mix, such as zucchini or eggplant, to diversify the recipe. You can also replace the white wine with red wine for a different flavor.
- Serving: This recipe pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes, but also with a fresh green salad for a contrast of textures.

Nutritional information:

- Calories per serving: approximately 600 kcal
- Proteins: 40 g
- Fats: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative and will add a different flavor to the dish.

2. What type of white wine is recommended?
- Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
- Besides roasted peppers, you can serve with basmati rice or gratin potatoes for an extra flavor.

So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this Basque Chicken with peppers, a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a story full of tradition to the plate. Enjoy your meal!