Geandra (cornmeal porridge)

Polenta Stew: A Delicacy from the Heart of Childhood

Polenta stew, also known as geandra, is a classic recipe that evokes pleasant childhood memories, blending the simple and comforting flavors of basic ingredients. This dish, lovingly prepared by grandparents, is not only nourishing but also full of flavor, making it perfect for family meals. I invite you to discover with me the steps to achieve the best polenta stew, a true feast of flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

* 2 chicken thighs (cut in half or thirds)
* 4-5 tablespoons of oil
* 1 large onion (or 2 small onions)
* 1 red bell pepper (optional, but recommended for flavor)
* 1 liter of water or chicken broth (preferably for a richer taste)
* 150-200 g of cornmeal
* 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
* A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
* Salt and pepper, to taste

Necessary Utensils

* Deep frying pan or pot
* Spatula
* Whisk or wooden spoon
* Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken thighs in half or thirds, as preferred. If you don’t have a bell pepper, feel free to use a mix of vegetables with carrots and celery for a more complex taste. Peel and chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes.

2. Frying the Chicken Thighs
In a deep frying pan, add the 4-5 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and fry them until golden on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. It is essential to turn them occasionally to brown evenly.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables
Once the thighs are nearly done, remove them from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens. This is the stage where flavors develop and unite!

4. Adding the Liquid
Put the thighs back in the pan, add 1 liter of water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. When the liquid starts to boil, reduce the heat to low.

5. Incorporating the Cornmeal
Now comes the interesting part! Start pouring the cornmeal in a rain-like fashion, vigorously mixing with a whisk or wooden spoon to avoid lumps. This is an important technique to achieve a fine and creamy texture.

6. Cooking with a Lid
Cover the pan with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cornmeal will absorb the liquid and gain a thick and velvety consistency.

7. Finishing the Dish
Once the stew has reached the desired consistency, add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Finally, add the freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Serving

The polenta stew is served warm, accompanied by a generous spoonful of sour cream, which will add extra creaminess to the dish. A delicious option is to pair it with mashed potatoes or a seasonal salad for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Chef's Tip

If you find that the geandra is too thick, feel free to add a little water or chicken broth during cooking until you achieve the desired consistency. You can also replace the chicken thighs with wings or chicken breast, depending on your preferences.

Possible Variations

1. Mushroom Polenta Stew: If you are vegetarian or simply want to try a different version, replace the meat with fresh mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms along with the onion and bell pepper for a savory taste.

2. Spicy Polenta: Add a few slices of chili pepper or spices like paprika to give the dish a bit of heat.

Nutritional Benefits

Polenta stew is a good source of protein, especially due to the chicken, and provides carbohydrates from the cornmeal, which is an excellent energy source. Additionally, the added vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, while the parsley adds antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use store-bought cornmeal? Yes, it is recommended to use quality cornmeal, but make sure it is finely ground to avoid lumps.

- How long does it take to cook the polenta stew? Preparation takes about 55 minutes, but it is worth every minute for the delicious taste you will achieve.

Conclusion

Polenta stew is a versatile and comforting dish, perfect for family meals or special occasions. Not only will it remind you of beautiful moments from childhood, but it will also bring a warm and welcoming aroma to your home. I encourage you to experiment and add your own touches to personalize the recipe. Enjoy your meal!