Chicken Ostropel

Chicken Ostropel: A Comfort Food Recipe with a Taste of Home

Chicken Ostropel is one of those recipes that embraces your soul with every bite. This delicious dish, with a rich history, is often associated with family meals, where simple flavors intertwine with pleasant memories. The dish is perfect for chilly days or for moments when you crave something comforting.

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

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs
- 2 chicken wings
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon rice flour
- water or chicken broth (enough to cover the meat pieces)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs and wings well. Remove the skin if preferred, to reduce fat in the dish. Cut the thighs in half to ensure even cooking. It is important to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking to make the process as efficient as possible.

2. Browning the meat: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Browning the meat is an essential step as it will give it a deep flavor and pleasant texture. Let them cook for 7-10 minutes, turning occasionally to brown evenly.

3. Adding the liquid: Once the meat is browned, pour enough water or chicken broth to cover all the pieces. This step will help the meat cook slowly and evenly, ensuring it will be tender and juicy. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

4. Preparing the sauce: After the meat is cooked, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with the rice flour. The rice flour will help thicken the sauce, giving it a silky texture. Add the tomato paste mixture over the chicken, along with the finely chopped garlic (you can crush it for a stronger flavor). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finishing the dish: Let the Ostropel simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency. You can adjust the taste with more salt, pepper, or tomato paste, depending on your preferences.

6. Serving: Chicken Ostropel pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. A fresh vegetable salad on the side will add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips:
- For a more complex flavor, you can add a few peppercorns or bay leaves during the simmering.
- If you like spicy flavors, you can add a finely chopped hot pepper to the sauce.
- You can replace chicken with turkey or pork, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat used.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken Ostropel is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken meat, and adding fresh vegetables in the salad contributes to your daily intake of vitamins and minerals. Rice flour is a gluten-free alternative that brings digestive benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to achieve an even texture.
- How can I store the Ostropel? It keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor gets even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Chicken Ostropel is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to the table, to stories, and to moments spent with loved ones. Whether you choose to prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will indulge you with its warm and comforting flavors. Bon appétit!