Chicken cold cuts with red beet and horseradish

Chicken aspic with beetroot and horseradish: a traditional recipe reinterpreted

In our grandparents' time, aspic was a delicacy proudly served on holidays or family gatherings. Today, I invite you to discover a modern and aromatic variation of this classic recipe: chicken aspic with beetroot and horseradish. This recipe will not only bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate but will also delight your taste buds with its unique combination of ingredients.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 large slice of celery
- 1 large parsnip
- 2 tablespoons of gelatin
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Peppercorns
- Beetroot (hot or pickled) and horseradish for serving

A bit of history
Aspic is a traditional dish that dates back to ancient times, used not only as a main course but also as a way to preserve meat. This recipe has been adapted over time to include various ingredients, and the combination with beetroot and horseradish adds a splash of color and flavor, making it a perfect option for festive meals or a light lunch.

Let's start the culinary adventure

Step 1: Preparing the chicken
The first step is to cut the chicken into pieces and put it to boil. To obtain a clear and tasty broth, add the chicken to a large pot with cold water, season with salt, and bring to a boil. It is essential to skim off the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear liquid.

Step 2: Adding the vegetables
After about 15-20 minutes of boiling, add the cleaned and whole carrots, celery, and parsnip, along with the peppercorns. Let everything simmer until the vegetables become tender and the chicken is well cooked. This process will take about 40 minutes.

Step 3: Removing the ingredients
Once the vegetables and chicken are ready, remove them from the pot and let them cool. Strain the obtained broth to eliminate impurities and, if necessary, let it boil for a few more minutes. Add salt, pepper, and crushed garlic cloves, which will add extra aroma and flavor.

Step 4: Preparing the gelatin
In a small bowl, soak the gelatin in 200 ml of cold water for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as the gelatin will help solidify the aspic, giving it a perfect texture.

Step 5: Assembling the aspic
Once the chicken has cooled, detach the meat from the bones and cut it into suitable pieces. The carrots are sliced into strips. In small bowls, place pieces of meat and carrots, ensuring that each serving has a consistent amount of both ingredients.

Step 6: Pouring the broth
After the broth has boiled and cooled slightly, add the soaked gelatin and mix well. Strain the broth again to obtain a clear liquid. Pour the broth over the meat and carrots in the bowls, ensuring that all ingredients are completely covered.

Step 7: Cooling and serving
Let the aspic cool at room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator to set, ideally overnight. The next day, invert the aspic onto a plate and serve it with beetroot and horseradish, adding a touch of freshness and flavor.

Practical tips
- Use a quality chicken, preferably free-range, for a richer taste.
- Ensure that the vegetables are fresh to obtain a flavorful broth.
- If you want a spicier version, add some slices of fresh chili pepper to the broth before pouring it into the bowls.
- The aspic can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but it is important to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey will give a slightly different flavor but will work very well in this recipe.

2. How can I make the aspic easier to digest?
You can reduce the amount of salt and pepper, instead adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of aspic?
Although traditional aspic uses meat, you can create a vegetarian version using various vegetables and a vegetable broth base with plant-based gelatin.

This chicken aspic with beetroot and horseradish is not only a culinary delight but also a way to bring family and friends together around the table. Experiment with different ingredients and create personalized versions that reflect your tastes and preferences. Enjoy every serving and relish the warm and friendly atmosphere that meals with loved ones provide. Bon appétit!