Chicken Ostropel

Name: Chicken Ostropel - Casandra I.
Ingredients: 1 chicken; 2; 3 onions; 5 cloves of garlic; 2; 3 tablespoons of flour; 4 tablespoons of tomato paste (or canned tomatoes); salt; pepper; sweet paprika; parsley.

Diverse - Chicken Ostropel by Casandra I. - Recipia

Chicken Ostropel - a traditional Romanian dish, full of flavor and aroma, perfect for a family meal or to impress guests. This simple recipe transforms basic ingredients into a delicious dish that will surely become a favorite for everyone. Let’s begin our culinary journey! Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes Total: 1 hour Servings: 4-6 The necessary ingredients for a successful chicken ostropel are: - 1 chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into pieces - 2-3 large onions, finely chopped - 5 cloves of garlic, minced - 2-3 tablespoons of flour - 4 tablespoons of tomato paste (or canned tomatoes) - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika - 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped for garnish - Oil for frying Step by step: 1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well and cutting it into pieces (thighs, breasts, wings). Make sure to remove excess fat for a lighter ostropel. 2. The onion and garlic: Finely chop the onion and garlic. The onion will add a sweet flavor, while the garlic will provide an irresistible aroma. You can also add a pinch of chopped hot pepper for extra flavor if you like spicy food. 3. Brown the meat: In a heated pot, add a few tablespoons of oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step will help the meat retain its juiciness. 4. Add the onion: Once the chicken is browned, add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes transparent, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. 5. Incorporate the garlic and flour: Add the garlic and flour, stirring well to coat all the ingredients. The flour will help thicken the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the flour turns slightly golden. 6. The tomato sauce: At this point, add the tomato paste (or canned tomatoes), salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for another 2 minutes to intensify the flavors. 7. Final cooking: Add enough hot water to cover the meat. Cover the pot with a lid and let the ostropel simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and well-cooked. 8. Serving: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. Finally, add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. The chicken ostropel is served hot, alongside a side of mashed potatoes or polenta, which will absorb the delicious sauce. Useful tips: - For a more intense flavor, you can add a few bay leaves or a pinch of cinnamon during cooking. - If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. - When preparing the ostropel, use a pot or deep pan, which will help distribute heat evenly and achieve a thick sauce. Chicken ostropel is not just a main dish but a true culinary experience, full of aromas and tradition. By trying this recipe, you will bring a touch of Romania to your table, and each bite will be a celebration of flavor. Enjoy your meal!