Chick of Voinesti

Voinesti Chicken with Peas and Tomatoes - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a meal that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, the freshness of tomatoes, and the sweetness of peas? This Voinesti Chicken recipe is not just a simple dish, but a true culinary experience that will transport you to the heart of our gastronomic traditions. Inspired by the book 'The Dishes of Romanians' by the late master Radu Anton Roman, this recipe is a perfect combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients that will delight you.

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken of about 1 kg
- 1 kg potatoes
- 400 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 50 g butter
- 1 cup dry white wine (Riesling is an excellent choice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 head of garlic
- Fresh or dried thyme (to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken in half lengthwise. This will allow for even browning and quicker cooking. Season each half well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add oil or butter (or a combination of both for a special taste). When the fat is hot, add the chicken skin-side down, letting it brown until golden and crispy.

2. Adding the Aromas:
While the chicken is browning, finely chop the head of garlic. When the chicken is ready, deglaze it with the chicken broth and dry white wine. Add the chopped garlic and thyme, stirring gently to combine the flavors. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid reduces and the meat becomes tender.

3. Preparing the Tomatoes:
Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. Peel them (to make this easier, you can quickly dip them in hot water) and slice them into rounds. When the liquid in the skillet has significantly reduced, place the tomato slices over the chicken and transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 15 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to caramelize slightly and reveal their sweet flavor.

4. Cooking the Peas and Potatoes:
In another skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the peas along with a little water and salt. Cover and let them steam over low heat until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, peel and cut the potatoes into cubes or slices, as preferred. Fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy.

5. Serving:
On a beautiful platter, arrange the chicken halves with the tomatoes on top, surrounded by green peas and fried potatoes. Serve the dish alongside a glass of dry Costești wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the meal.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the chicken: Opt for a free-range chicken if possible, as the meat is more flavorful and tasty.
- The wine: The Riesling chosen for this recipe should be of good quality, not too sweet, to balance the flavors.
- Variations: You can add seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of rice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before starting the preparation for even cooking.

2. How can I make the chicken spicier?
If you like your food spicier, you can add a bit of hot pepper or spicy seasonings like paprika.

3. Is this dish suitable for festive meals?
Absolutely! Voinesti Chicken is an excellent choice for festive occasions, having an attractive appearance and rich flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein from the chicken, vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and peas, as well as healthy carbohydrates from the potatoes. This makes the dish a balanced choice for a hearty meal.

In conclusion, Voinesti Chicken not only offers an explosion of flavors, but it is also a recipe that brings joy around the table, uniting family and friends. Don't hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion!