Chicken stew

Chicken stew is one of those dishes that brings a touch of warmth and familiarity to every meal. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a casual lunch. With a harmonious combination of ingredients, chicken stew will remind you of meals lovingly prepared in childhood. Let's discover together how to achieve a perfect result, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 large chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- Chicken spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika) to taste
- 2 cups of water

History of chicken stew:

Chicken stew has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. This dish has been cooked over time as a way to gather the family around the table, bringing a sense of community and comfort. From the way the chicken is cooked to the spices used, each housewife has her own secrets that make this recipe unique and special.

Step by step: How to prepare chicken stew

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Cutting the chicken into equal pieces will help it cook evenly. Don't forget to wash and peel the onion and garlic before starting.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot or deep skillet, add the two tablespoons of oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until it becomes golden and soft. This step is essential as the sautéed onion will add sweetness and flavor to the stew.

3. Adding the chicken: Once the onion is ready, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and if desired, a teaspoon of sweet paprika to add a touch of color and a slightly smoky flavor. Sauté the chicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the meat is lightly browned.

4. Boiling: After the chicken is browned, add the two cups of water to the pot. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes. It is important not to lift the lid too often to maintain the steam and achieve tender and juicy meat.

5. Finishing the dish: When the chicken is well cooked and the sauce has thickened, add the tomato paste, crushed garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Serving: Chicken stew is delicious served with pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can add a fresh green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.

Practical tip:

To enhance the flavor of the stew, you can also add some vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, during the sautéing of the onion. These not only add extra taste but also contribute to a colorful and appetizing appearance of the dish.

Substitutions and variations:

If you want to experiment, you can also use turkey or rabbit meat instead of chicken. Additionally, you can try different types of fresh or dried herbs to give your stew a personalized flavor. A Mediterranean variant could include green olives and cherry tomatoes, added in the last minutes of cooking.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken stew is an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins (B6, B12), and minerals (phosphorus, selenium). Adding vegetables like onion and garlic improves the nutritional value of the dish by providing antioxidants and fiber.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure it is completely thawed before cooking to achieve an even texture.

2. How can I store chicken stew? You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed later.

3. Can I add extra spices? Absolutely! Spices like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can give a different and refined taste to your stew.

Serving recommendations:

For a complete culinary experience, serve chicken stew alongside a dry white wine or a light cocktail, such as a refreshing mojito. These combinations will highlight the rich flavors of the dish.

So, I wish you happy cooking and enjoy every bite! Chicken stew is more than just a meal; it is an occasion to gather family and friends around the table to create delicious memories.