Chicken hearts with peas

Chicken Hearts with Peas - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Welcome to our kitchen, where today we will prepare a simple and tasty recipe for chicken hearts with peas. This dish combines the tenderness of the hearts with the sweetness of the peas and the flavors of the vegetables, creating a perfect meal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. I will guide you step by step, providing all the necessary details to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg chicken hearts (only hearts)
- 1 kg peas (frozen, in a bag)
- 100 g grated pumpkin
- 100 g grated parsnip
- 1 red onion
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons sweet pepper paste
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 2-3 tablespoons salt-free vegetable seasoning (organic)
- salt, freshly ground pink pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- chopped fresh parsley and dill (for serving)

A Short Story About the Recipe

Chicken hearts are often overlooked, but they have a rich history in traditional cuisine. Delicate and full of flavor, hearts are an excellent source of protein and nutrients. This dish is ideal for discovering the subtle taste of hearts, enriched by the flavors of fresh vegetables.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Hearts
Start by washing the chicken hearts well under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot with water and boil them over medium heat. During boiling, foam will appear on the surface of the water - be sure to remove it with a skimmer for a cleaner and tastier dish. After about 15-20 minutes, remove the hearts from the water and set them aside.

2. Preparing the Vegetables
Peel and chop the vegetables. The red onion should be finely chopped, and the pumpkin and parsnip should be grated. These will add texture and a natural sweetness to your dish.

3. Sautéing the Onion
In a deep skillet or pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for one minute until it becomes translucent, being careful not to burn it.

4. Adding the Peas and Hearts
Once the onion is sautéed, add the frozen peas, boiled chicken hearts, grated pumpkin, grated parsnip, sweet pepper paste, salt, freshly ground pink pepper, and dried tarragon. Mix all the ingredients well to combine the flavors.

5. Baking the Dish
Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Then, add the diced red bell pepper and 2-3 tablespoons of organic vegetable seasoning (without salt). If you think it’s necessary, add a cup of water to prevent sticking. Transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 25-30 minutes.

6. Final Mixing
Halfway through the baking time (after 15 minutes), take the pot out of the oven and mix the ingredients well. Check the consistency; if necessary, you can add a little more water. The hearts are tender, so don’t leave them in the oven too long; 30 minutes is sufficient.

7. Serving
Once the dish is ready, sprinkle finely chopped parsley and dill on top, to taste. The fresh aroma of the herbs will add an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious dish can be served alongside a simple side of polenta or rice. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade can perfectly complement the meal. If you enjoy experimenting, try adding some slices of hot peppers for a bit of spice!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh peas?
Of course! Fresh peas will add an even fresher texture and taste to the dish.

- What else can I add?
You can add grated carrots or even mushrooms to diversify the dish.

- How can I store leftovers?
You can store the food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken hearts are rich in protein and contain essential vitamins, such as B12. Peas are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health. Pumpkin and parsnip add vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and potassium, making this dish a healthy and balanced choice.

Calories

A serving of chicken hearts with peas contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the exact amount of oil and vegetables used. It is a filling yet healthy meal, perfect for a balanced diet.

Possible Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken hearts with mushrooms or tofu. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or basil, to add another layer of flavor.

I conclude this recipe with a warm thought: cooking is an art that brings us together. Whether you cook for yourself or for loved ones, every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your meal!