Chicken Ciulama

Chicken Ciulama – A Nostalgic Delicacy

If you've ever wondered how to turn simple ingredients into a comforting meal, chicken ciulama is the perfect answer. This delicious dish, full of flavor and warmth, brings not just taste to the plate but also pleasant childhood memories, when family meals were filled with love and joy. Let's begin this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2-3 chicken thighs (approximately 600-800 g)
- 1 liter of broth (chicken and vegetables)
- 1 celery (approximately 150 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1-2 carrots (approximately 100-150 g)
- 4-5 tablespoons of flour
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Cooking oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Wasabi for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Broth:

1. Cleaning and preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Wash the celery, carrots, and onion. Cut the vegetables into large pieces, as we will not use them in the final dish, just to obtain a rich broth.

2. Boiling the chicken thighs: In a large pot, add the washed chicken thighs. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Let them boil for about 15 minutes, skimming periodically to achieve a clear broth.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once you have a clear broth, add the prepared vegetables. Let everything simmer over medium heat until the vegetables are soft and the thighs are well cooked, approximately 20-25 minutes.

4. Straining the broth: After the vegetables are cooked, strain the broth to keep only the liquid. Discard the vegetables, as we will not use them in the dish.

Preparing the Ciulama:

5. Preparing the ciulama: In a separate pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the first tablespoon of flour and stir vigorously to avoid lumps. Then add a ladle of the strained broth and mix quickly.

6. Continuing with the flour: Repeat the process for each tablespoon of flour, adding a ladle of broth each time and mixing well. You will notice how the ciulama thickens and takes on a creamy consistency.

7. Adding the meat: Once the ciulama has reached the desired consistency, add the cooked chicken thighs, cut into pieces. Let it simmer together for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.

8. Seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If desired, you can also add a hint of wasabi for a surprising flavor!

Serving:

Chicken ciulama is served hot, ideally alongside polenta or fresh bread. A side of pickles can add a pleasant contrast of flavors. If you want to impress, use wasabi for an elegant garnish that will pique your guests' curiosity.

Nutritional Benefits:

Chicken ciulama is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken. The vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins, while the flour provides carbohydrates for energy. It is a hearty dish, perfect for cooler days.

Possible Variations:

- You can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Add mushrooms or other favorite vegetables for a richer version.
- For a more intense flavor, experiment with spices like paprika or herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is an excellent choice and will provide a slightly different but equally delicious taste.

2. Can I keep the chicken ciulama for the next day?
Sure! It can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When reheating, add a little water or broth to restore its consistency.

3. Is it possible to make chicken ciulama lighter?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of oil and flour used, or you can use sweetened almond milk instead of broth for a vegan option.

4. What drinks pair well with chicken ciulama?
A dry white wine or a pale beer are perfect choices to accompany this dish. Additionally, a warm herbal tea can be a wonderful option for a comforting meal.

Enjoy your meal! Every bite of chicken ciulama will not only bring you culinary satisfaction but also a warm feeling, evoking pleasant memories and moments of conviviality. So, dare to try this simple recipe and share it with your loved ones!