Gizzard and Heart Stew

Gizzard and heart stew: a traditional delight with authentic flavor

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

Welcome to the world of savory flavors! Today we will prepare together a gizzard and heart stew, a dish that carries with it a story full of tradition and comfort. This recipe is perfect for those who want to explore less common dishes that are rich in taste and substance. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 500 g chicken gizzards and hearts
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Vegetable oil for sautéing

A brief history

Gizzard and heart stew is a dish that has been appreciated over time, often prepared in households around the world. It is a recipe that reflects culinary traditions based on using every part of the animal, aiming not to waste anything. This dish is rich in protein and minerals, making it an excellent nutritional choice.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken gizzards and hearts well under cold running water. Ensure they are clean, then let them drain. Peel the onion, carrots, and red bell pepper. Cut the onion into small cubes, the carrots into thin rounds, and the bell pepper into pieces.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet or pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the carrots and red bell pepper, letting them sauté together for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Adding the gizzards and hearts
Once the vegetables have softened, add the gizzards and hearts to the skillet. Let them sauté together with the vegetables for 5-6 minutes, until they become slightly golden. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.

4. Adding the sauce
Pour the tomato juice over the mixture in the skillet, along with the bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. If you notice that the sauce is too thick, adding a little water will help maintain the desired consistency.

5. Finalizing the stew
After the gizzards are cooked, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the sauce reduces to the desired consistency. In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with the flour, then add the mixture to the stew. This will give it a creamy texture and intense flavor. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

6. Final seasoning
Finally, add the crushed garlic, chopped parsley, and paprika. Mix well and let the stew rest for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serving and suggestions

Gizzard and heart stew is delicious served with warm polenta, which perfectly absorbs the rich sauce. You can drizzle some olive oil on top and add a few fresh parsley leaves to beautify the plate. This combination of textures and flavors will turn your meal into a memorable experience.

Useful tips

- Ingredients: Choose fresh gizzards and hearts for the best flavor. If you can't find them, you can also use chicken or turkey meat.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as peas or mushrooms, to diversify the dish. Additionally, a tablespoon of white wine added to the tomato sauce will give it a sophisticated touch.
- Parsley: Use fresh parsley, as it will enhance the flavor of the dish and make it look more appetizing.

Nutritional information

This stew is rich in protein, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals, with a low carbohydrate content, making it a healthy choice. A serving has approximately 350 calories, depending on the amount of oil and polenta served alongside.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace gizzards and hearts with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or turkey meat, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add more hot paprika or a few slices of fresh hot pepper.

3. What drinks pair well with this stew?
A pale lager or a dry red wine pairs excellently with this tasty dish.

4. Can I make the stew in advance?
Yes, the stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and becomes even tastier the next day.

These practical details and suggestions will help you enjoy every step of the cooking process. Remember that cooking is an art, and like any artist, you should leave your personal mark on every recipe. So, dare to experiment and create a gizzard and heart stew that becomes your favorite! Enjoy!