Chicken Ostropel with new potatoes

Chicken Ostropel with New Potatoes

Chicken ostropel is a traditional dish that brings the warm aroma of home to the table and unforgettable memories. This simple and delicious recipe combines the juiciness of chicken meat with the flavor of new potatoes, all in a rich and aromatic sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, ostropel is a true feast that will delight your taste buds. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg whole chicken thighs
- 6 larger new potatoes
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tomatoes (for salad)
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 100 ml broth
- 4 teaspoons of flour
- 2 teaspoons of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika (optional)
- Mushroom concentrate (optional)
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the chicken ostropel with new potatoes:

1. Preparing the meat:
Wash the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Then, cut them in half for more even cooking. Season the meat with salt and pepper to taste, and let it sit for 15 minutes. This step allows the spices to penetrate the meat better, adding extra flavor.

2. Boiling the potatoes:
While the meat marinates, wash the new potatoes under running water, removing any impurities. Then, place them in a pot with cold water, adding a teaspoon of sugar and a little salt. Boil for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not falling apart. This sugar trick helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

3. Frying the meat:
In a cast iron pot or cauldron, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and fry them on all sides until golden and crispy. This step is essential to seal in the meat's juices, ensuring it remains juicy during cooking.

4. Adding the garlic:
After the meat is fried, add the sliced or finely chopped garlic. The garlic will add extra flavor to the dish. Mix well and add enough water to cover the meat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.

5. Preparing the sauce:
After the chicken has simmered, take the salad tomatoes and chop them finely. Add the chopped tomatoes to the meat, along with a bit of broth and chopped herbs. Season with a splash of mushroom concentrate if you want a more intense flavor. Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and let it boil for another 10 minutes.

6. Thickening the sauce:
Mix the flour with the remaining broth, then add the mixture to the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it boil for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. A personal touch I recommend is to add a teaspoon of paprika for a nice color and a tangy taste.

7. Finishing the dish:
After the potatoes have boiled, drain them and peel them. Cut them into larger pieces. On a platter, arrange the potatoes, add the chicken, making sure to wrap the bone from the lower thighs in foil to avoid accidents at the table. Sprinkle a little paprika and herbs on top, and for an extra flavor boost, add a little sauce from the ostropel.

8. Serving:
You can serve the chicken ostropel with garlic sauce, fresh polenta, and a mixed salad. An interesting idea is to fill the tomatoes removed at the beginning with salad, adding a touch of freshness to the dish. The combined taste of garlic, polenta, and ostropel will turn any meal into a true feast.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken ostropel is an excellent source of protein, and new potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Garlic has antibacterial properties and is beneficial for the immune system. A healthy dish that, in moderate portions, can be part of a balanced diet.

Calories:
A serving of chicken ostropel with new potatoes has approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the cooking method and added ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breast or turkey, but the cooking time will differ.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a little chopped hot pepper or chili sauce, depending on your preferences.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, chicken ostropel can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving, considering that the flavors intensify over time.

Possible variations:
- You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for a more complex flavor.
- Instead of broth, you can use fresh tomatoes for a lighter sauce.
- For a more gourmet version, you can add white wine during the sauce preparation.

I hope this recipe for chicken ostropel with new potatoes inspires you to cook and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!