Peas with chicken gizzards in the oven

Peas with Gizzards in the Oven - A Recipe that Combines Flavor and Comfort

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

For lovers of tasty and comforting food, the recipe for peas with gizzards in the oven is an excellent choice. This is a simple and quick recipe, ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion. The gizzards, rich in nutrients, combine perfectly with the sweet peas and aromatic vegetables, creating a delicious dish.

A Brief History of the Recipe
Dishes with gizzards have a long tradition in Romanian cuisine, being consumed over the centuries due to the accessibility of ingredients and their rich flavor. Today, this dish is considered comfort food, evoking pleasant memories from childhood when family meals were rich in flavors and warmth.

Necessary Ingredients
- 1 can of peas (approximately 400 g)
- 500 g gizzards (chicken or turkey)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for added color)
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 onion
- 1 cup of water
- 5-6 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- Fresh dill, for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the gizzards: Start by washing the gizzards well under cold running water. Place them in a pot, add water and a pinch of salt, then boil for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps remove impurities and tenderize the gizzards. If using frozen gizzards, you can add them directly to the dish without boiling.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables: the bell pepper, carrot, and parsnip. The onion will be finely chopped. These vegetables will add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

3. Assembling the dish: In a baking dish, add the chopped vegetables. Cover them with drained peas (if using canned peas) or frozen peas. Then, add the boiled gizzards along with the olive oil. Season with salt, white pepper, and thyme. Mix the ingredients well to combine the flavors.

4. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 30 minutes. The aluminum foil will help retain moisture and allow the vegetables to cook evenly.

5. Finishing the dish: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and let the dish bake for another 15 minutes until the vegetables become slightly browned and juicy. This will add a delicious note and an appetizing appearance.

6. Serving: Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and sprinkle fresh, chopped dill on top. The dill adds a fresh and invigorating aroma, perfect to complement this comforting dish.

Helpful Tip: If you want to add extra flavor, you can add a few finely chopped garlic cloves to the vegetable mix.

Possible Variations
- You can add diced potatoes to make this dish a heartier main course.
- Another interesting option is to add a little white wine during baking for a more complex flavor.
- If you enjoy spicy flavors, feel free to add a few red peppercorns or a pinch of chili powder.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Gizzards are an excellent source of protein and iron, while peas and vegetables provide the necessary vitamins and fiber. A serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh peas?
Absolutely! Fresh peas will add a unique texture and flavor to the dish. They will require longer cooking, so make sure to boil them before adding them to the dish.

2. What other side dishes can I serve alongside?
Rice or mashed potatoes are excellent side dishes that pair perfectly with this dish. Additionally, a fresh green salad will add a pleasant contrast.

3. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this dish after it has completely cooled. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

This recipe for peas with gizzards in the oven is not only simple and quick but also full of flavors and nostalgia. I hope you enjoy every bite and share this delicious culinary experience with your loved ones! Bon appétit!