Chicken Gizzard Stew

Delicious Chicken Gizzard Stew

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

Discover a traditional, flavorful recipe that transforms chicken gizzards into a delicious stew, perfect for family meals. This dish is not only easy to make but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of Sunday dinners when everyone gathered around the table. The chicken gizzard stew is not only hearty but also rich in nutrients, offering the advantage of being an economical and healthy choice.

Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken gizzards, cleaned and washed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled (you can leave them whole or cut into large pieces, as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Water (about 500 ml, but you can adjust to your liking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 bay leaves

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken gizzards well under cold running water, removing any impurities. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smoother process.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a heavy-bottomed pot, add a splash of oil (sunflower or olive oil, depending on your preference) and sauté the diced onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally so the onion becomes translucent but doesn’t burn. This will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to your dish.

3. Adding the gizzards: Once the onion is ready, add the chicken gizzards to the pot. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to brown them evenly. This will seal the juices in the gizzards, enhancing the flavor.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle paprika and mix well to combine with the onion and gizzards. Be careful! Paprika can burn easily, so make sure the heat isn’t too high. Add the tomato paste and stir again, allowing the flavors to develop for a few minutes.

5. Adding the potatoes: Now it’s time to add the potatoes to the pot. If you chose to leave them whole, make sure they are medium-sized so they cook evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, add the bay leaves for extra flavor.

6. Cooking under pressure: Pour enough water to cover the ingredients, but not too much, as the potatoes will release some water as well. Close the pressure cooker lid and, once it starts to whistle, let it boil for 30 minutes.

7. Finishing the dish: Turn off the heat and let the stew sit under pressure for 15 minutes without opening the lid. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

8. Serving: After carefully opening the lid, your chicken gizzard stew is ready to serve! It pairs deliciously with a portion of warm polenta, which will absorb the rich, aromatic sauce. You can also add fresh dill or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few chopped garlic cloves while sautéing the onion.
- If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of dried chili pepper.
- This recipe can be adapted using other chicken organs, such as hearts or liver, for a variety of textures and flavors.
- The stew can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves after sitting for a day.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chicken gizzard stew contains about 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Gizzards are an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, potatoes add healthy carbohydrates and fiber, essential for good digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace gizzards with another type of meat? Absolutely! You can use chicken breast or thighs, but the cooking time will vary.
- What other side dishes can I serve with this stew? Besides polenta, mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad are excellent options.
- How can I adjust the recipe to be gluten-free? This recipe is already gluten-free, but make sure all the ingredients used are labeled gluten-free.

Whether you are preparing for a family dinner or simply want to experiment in the kitchen, this chicken gizzard stew is the ideal choice! Cook with love and savor every bite!