Mushroom stew with chicken drumsticks

Mushroom Stew with Chicken Drumsticks: A Delicacy at Home

Who doesn’t love a warm and comforting meal, full of savory aromas that remind you of family Sunday dinners? Mushroom stew with chicken drumsticks is a traditional dish that perfectly combines the delicate texture of mushrooms with the juiciness of chicken meat. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, allowing for adaptations based on individual preferences.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Essential ingredients:

- 8-10 chicken drumsticks (approximately 1 kg)
- 2 kg of fresh champignon mushrooms
- 1 large red onion
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 crushed garlic cloves
- Salt, freshly ground pepper, dried tarragon, dried mint (to taste)

A brief history of the stew:

Stew, a dish with deep roots in our gastronomy, is a symbol of comfort food, often prepared in family settings or on special occasions. This recipe perfectly embodies the traditional spirit, combining simple ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful meal. In its variations, stew can include various types of meat and vegetables, but today we focus on the delicious combination of mushrooms and chicken.

Step by step: How to prepare mushroom stew with chicken drumsticks

1. Preparing the meat

The first step in preparing this dish is to prepare the chicken drumsticks. Wash them well under cold running water, ensuring that you remove any impurities. Then, place them in a pot of boiling water with a little salt. This will help remove the foam that forms on the surface. Let them boil for about 20-30 minutes until the meat becomes tender.

2. Cleaning and preparing the mushrooms

While the drumsticks are boiling, you can take care of the mushrooms. Clean them with a damp cloth or a sharp knife, removing any impurities. Slice them thinly or cube them, according to preference. It is important to use fresh mushrooms, as they will add a savory flavor to your dish.

3. Sauté the onion

In a pot, add the extra virgin olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. This will form the flavor base for your stew.

4. Add the flour

Once the onion is sautéed, gradually add the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The flour will help thicken the sauce and add a creamy texture. A good idea is to use a metal plate to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pot while maintaining an even temperature.

5. Add the mushrooms and meat

After mixing the flour with the onion, it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms and the boiled chicken drumsticks. Mix well to combine the ingredients, then add salt, pepper, tarragon, and dried mint to taste. These spices will add a delightful aroma to your dish.

6. Bake in the oven

Transfer the mixture to a preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for about 60 minutes. The mushrooms will release a lot of water, so it’s normal for the dish to seem wetter at first. During baking, the water will evaporate, and the flavors will concentrate, resulting in a rich and delicious sauce.

7. Serving

Once the stew is ready, serve it hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. A delicious suggestion would be to pair it with warm polenta or a serving of mashed potatoes. These side dishes not only perfectly complement the flavor but also add a traditional touch to your meal.

Useful tips:

- Use seasonal mushrooms for the best flavors. Champignon mushrooms are ideal, but you can also experiment with other types of mushrooms.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of sour cream in the last minutes of baking.
- If you want to diversify the recipe, you can add carrots or bell peppers for a splash of color and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Sure! You can replace chicken drumsticks with pork or turkey, depending on your preferences.

2. How many calories does this recipe have?
A serving of mushroom stew with chicken drumsticks has approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and flour used.

3. How can I store the stew?
The stew stores very well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

4. What drink pairs well with the stew?
A dry white wine or freshly squeezed tomato juice are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

Conclusion

Mushroom stew with chicken drumsticks is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe, perfect for family meals or a comforting dinner. With accessible ingredients and an easy-to-follow technique, you will surely impress anyone with this dish. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy a delicious meal! Enjoy your meal!