Stew with gizzards and hearts

Stew with Gizzards and Hearts - A Delicacy from Cooking Tradition

Who doesn't love a rich and savory stew? This recipe for stew with gizzards and hearts is not only a hearty meal but also a journey into the culinary memories of many of us. It's a dish that reminds us of family gatherings, of grandparents who knew how to transform simple ingredients into true delicacies. Moreover, the stew with gizzards and hearts is an excellent choice for those who want to experience a traditional recipe, full of flavors and textures.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients

- 700 g gizzards and hearts (you can choose the desired combination, but make sure they are fresh)
- 3 yellow bell peppers (for a sweet taste and vibrant color)
- 1 head of garlic (for an extra flavor)
- 3 medium onions (choose white or yellow onions for a sweeter taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste (for a rich flavor)
- A bunch of fresh dill (or dried if you don't have fresh on hand)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or fresh if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon of marjoram (for a special taste)
- Sunflower or olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing and cleaning the gizzards and hearts thoroughly. It is essential to remove any filaments or impurities. After cleaning, cut them into smaller pieces and place them in a bowl with cold water to draw out the blood. Let them soak in the water for 15-20 minutes.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
Meanwhile, take the 3 onions and 3 yellow bell peppers. Cut the onions into small cubes and the peppers into strips. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and pepper, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the gizzards and hearts
Drain the gizzards and hearts and add them to the pot. Let them sauté together with the vegetables for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they change color and become more opaque.

4. Including the garlic
Slice the head of garlic thinly and add it to the pot. Garlic will bring an extra flavor, so don’t skip it. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes.

5. Boiling the stew
Now is the time to add enough water to cover the ingredients, then let it simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes. This boiling time will help the meat become tender and flavorful.

6. Adding the spices
After the gizzards and hearts have boiled, add the tomato paste, dill, thyme, and marjoram. Mix well and let the stew simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Check the taste and adjust the spices if necessary.

7. Serving
The stew with gizzards and hearts is served hot, alongside creamy mashed potatoes or steaming polenta. These sides perfectly complement the richness and flavors of the stew.

Useful tips

- Choosing ingredients: Make sure the gizzards and hearts are fresh. If possible, buy them from a trusted butcher. Proper portioning and cleaning can make a big difference in the final texture of the dish.

- Variations: You can experiment by adding diced carrots or potatoes to make the stew heartier. You can also replace the herbs with fresh ones, such as parsley or basil.

- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use other edible organs?* Of course, you can also add liver or kidneys to diversify the textures and flavors.
- *How can I make the stew spicier?* Add a little chili pepper or hot paprika during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits

This stew is an excellent source of protein, with a high iron content, making it a good choice for those needing an extra nutrient boost. Additionally, the added vegetables contribute to a balanced diet, providing important vitamins and minerals.

Perfect pairings

For a complete meal, you can accompany the stew with a dry red wine, which will complement the rich flavors of the dish. Also, a fresh pickled salad or a green salad with lemon can add a pleasant contrast to the rich taste of the stew.

Personal note

This stew with gizzards and hearts is not just a recipe, but also a way to remember culinary traditions and the meals shared with loved ones. Every bite brings with it a story, and cooking becomes a form of art and communication. Therefore, I encourage you to cook with your heart and share this delicacy with your loved ones.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking. Remember, every meal is an opportunity to create memories and celebrate the joy of being with those you love. Enjoy your meal!