Chicken Ostropel

Chicken ostropel - a traditional recipe full of flavor and memories. This savory dish combines the aroma of juicy meat with a rich sauce that will instantly win your heart and taste buds. Whether you are preparing for a family dinner or want to impress your guests, chicken ostropel is the perfect choice, easy to make and with accessible ingredients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The history of chicken ostropel is fascinating, with roots in traditional country cuisine, where dishes were simple yet full of flavor. Our grandmothers knew how to turn basic ingredients into delicious meals, and ostropel was often served with seasonal sides, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort on colder days.

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (or a mix of chicken, according to preference)
- 4-6 cloves of garlic (the more, the better)
- 200 ml tomato paste or tomato juice
- 2 bay leaves
- 5-6 peppercorns (black or white, according to preference)
- Salt, pepper, and spices to taste (oregano, basil, paprika)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 100 ml white wine (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- A pinch of honey or sugar (to balance the acidity of the sauce)
- Boiled water, as needed
- A little digestive powder (optional, as a thickener for the sauce instead of flour)

Preparation instructions:
1. Preparing the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under a stream of cold water. After washing, dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving an even browning.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and your preferred spices over the thighs. Make sure to cover them evenly, as the spices will give flavor to the dish.

3. Frying the thighs: In a deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and fry them on each side until golden brown. This will take about 7-10 minutes. It is important not to overcrowd the skillet, so if necessary, fry them in two batches.

4. Preparing the sauce: Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the tomato paste (or tomato juice), white wine, apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices. Add the crushed garlic and mix well. This sauce will be the aromatic base of your ostropel.

5. Cooking the thighs in the sauce: Once the thighs are fried, add the previously prepared sauce over them. Add bay leaves and peppercorns. If you find the sauce too thick, you can gradually add boiled water until you reach the desired consistency.

6. Simmering: Let everything simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to combine and the meat to become tender. You can cover the pot with a lid to retain moisture.

7. Finishing: After the ostropel is ready, taste the sauce and adjust the spices to your liking. If you like, you can add chopped dill at the end for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving:
Chicken ostropel pairs wonderfully with various sides. We recommend serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, boiled vegetables, or sautéed cauliflower. A fresh green salad or pickles are also excellent accompaniments that add a crunchy and refreshing contrast.

Useful tips:
- If you don't have chicken thighs, you can also use chicken breast, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- Use fresh garlic for an intense flavor; dried garlic will not provide the same aroma.
- The varieties of spices can be adjusted according to preferences. You can also add hot peppers for a spicy taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, ostropel can also be made with pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
2. How can I store ostropel? You can keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Is this recipe suitable for diets? Chicken ostropel provides a good amount of protein, and if served with vegetables, it can be a balanced meal.

Nutrition:
One serving of chicken ostropel contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and sides. It is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains vitamins from the vegetables.

This chicken ostropel is a simple yet extremely flavorful recipe. With each bite, it will take you back to family meals from childhood. So, don’t wait any longer, get cooking, and enjoy a dish that will quickly become a favorite!