Chicken Ostropel

Chicken Ostropel: A Feast of Flavors and Tradition

Chicken Ostropel is a recipe that brings together culinary tradition and the comfort of a family meal. This dish is not only a delicious choice but also a window into childhood memories, when the smell of tender meat and aromatic herbs filled the house. In this recipe, we will focus on how to prepare a serving of chicken ostropel that will impress anyone, whether it's a family lunch or a special dinner with friends.

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

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (preferably free-range chicken for a more intense flavor)
- 100 ml tomato puree (or fresh crushed tomatoes for a more vibrant taste)
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon thyme (or more if you enjoy a strong aroma)
- 4 garlic cloves (fresh, for a stronger taste)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Mixed pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying (sunflower oil or olive oil, depending on preference)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs
Start by washing the chicken thighs thoroughly. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on, as it will add extra flavor to the sauce. In a deep skillet, heat the oil, making sure there is enough to cover the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and fry them until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them and let them drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce
In the same skillet, without discarding the remaining oil (which will add flavor to the sauce), crush the garlic cloves and add them to sauté. Let them brown slightly, being careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic becomes bitter. After about 1-2 minutes, add the tomato puree and mix well, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to concentrate the flavors.

Step 3: Cooking the thighs in the sauce
Over the tomato sauce, pour a cup of water, stirring again. Then, add the fried chicken thighs to the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Thickening the sauce
In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in a little cold water to avoid lumps. Once the chicken sauce has simmered, add the flour mixture and stir continuously to incorporate the flour into the sauce. Continue to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, adjusting to taste.

Step 5: Finalizing and serving
When the sauce is ready, chop the parsley finely and add it to the skillet, mixing well. Turn off the heat and let the ostropel rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving suggestion:
Chicken ostropel is delicious served with warm polenta or mashed potatoes. Additionally, a fresh green salad with tomatoes and onions will perfectly complement this dish. Don't forget to add a few slices of fresh bread to enjoy the rich sauce!

Helpful tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a tablespoon of white wine to the sauce before adding the water.
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey thighs or even beef, adjusting the cooking time.
- For a spicier taste, add a few chili flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so watch it closely.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add some hot peppers or chili flakes to the sauce.

3. What side dish pairs best with chicken ostropel?
Polenta or mashed potatoes are the most popular choices, but rice is also an excellent option.

4. Can I cook ostropel in advance?
Yes, ostropel is even tastier the next day, after the flavors have had time to meld.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Chicken ostropel is not just a simple recipe, but a culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table!