Chicken wing stew

Chicken Wing Ostropel: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

When it comes to traditional dishes, chicken ostropel stands out with its rich flavor and enticing aromas. This recipe combines juicy wings with a tomato and garlic sauce, creating a dish that will transport you to cherished memories, from family meals to the most beautiful moments spent around the table. Let's see how we can enjoy this delight step by step!

Necessary Ingredients

- 8 chicken wings (approximately 1 kg)
- 500 ml chicken broth (can be from cubes, but preferably homemade)
- 4 tablespoons of poultry fat (preferably duck or goose for a richer flavor)
- 2 spring onions (or white onion, finely chopped)
- 1 kg fresh tomatoes (you can also use canned tomatoes, but nothing compares to freshness)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (freshly ground, for a more intense flavor)

Brief History

Ostropel, a traditional dish, has deep roots in Romanian cuisine. Although the recipe may vary from one region to another, its essence lies in combining meat with a rich tomato and garlic sauce, often accompanied by a hearty side dish. It is a meal that evokes warmth and comfort, perfect for family gatherings or to impress friends.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the chicken wings

Start by cleaning the chicken wings. It is essential to remove any excess fat or feathers. Then, cut them in half or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Chicken wings are excellent due to their high collagen content, which gives them a tender texture after cooking.

2. Heating the fat

In a large skillet, add the 4 tablespoons of poultry fat and let it heat up. You can use a cast-iron skillet or a non-stick one. The poultry fat will add a rich and aromatic flavor, so don't skip this step!

3. Cooking the onion

Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent - this should take about 5-7 minutes. The onion is the base of the flavors, so don't rush!

4. Searing the chicken wings

Once the onion has softened, add the chicken wings. Cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden. This step is essential to seal in the juices and give the meat a deeper flavor.

5. Adding the broth and garlic

Pour the chicken broth over the wings and add the finely chopped garlic cloves. Garlic will not only add extra flavor but is also an ingredient with numerous health benefits. Let the dish simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This cooking time will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

6. Tomatoes and final cooking

After 20 minutes, it's time to add the grated tomatoes. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Mix well, then let the ostropel simmer on low heat for another 20 minutes. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

Ostropel can be served alongside boiled potatoes, rice, or simply with warm homemade bread that will soak up the delicious sauce. A side of fresh green salad would perfectly complete the meal, offering a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Chicken wings are excellent, but you can also use thighs or even beef for an interesting variation.
- Tomatoes: If you don't have fresh tomatoes on hand, canned ones can be a good alternative. Choose those without preservatives.
- Garlic: If you like a more intense flavor, you can add plenty of garlic, but remember that this will give the sauce a stronger taste.
- Spicy version: If you enjoy spicy food, you can add a bit of hot pepper or paprika for an extra kick of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen meat?
Yes, but make sure it is thoroughly thawed before cooking. Cooking frozen meat can lead to an unpleasant texture.

2. How can I store leftover ostropel?
You can keep ostropel in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze it to enjoy later.

3. Is ostropel healthy?
Yes, it is a good source of protein and vitamins. Tomatoes and garlic add valuable antioxidants, and chicken wings are a leaner meat option.

Conclusion

I hope this chicken wing ostropel recipe has inspired you to spend time in the kitchen, preparing a delight that will please not only the taste buds but also the soul. Whether you choose to enjoy it with family or prepare it for a special dinner, this dish will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!