Bird stew

Bird stew – a classic recipe, full of flavors and tradition!

Who doesn't love a hearty dish with a rich flavor and a velvety texture? Bird stew is undoubtedly one of those recipes that transport us to simpler times, filled with warmth and joy. This version that I will share with you is a true culinary feast, perfect for family meals or for moments when you want to impress your guests.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (approximately 800g)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 3-4 garlic cloves (to taste)
- 2 medium onions (preferably yellow or white onion)
- 1 teaspoon of "Chicken Flavor Secret" (a spice mix that will enhance the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 400 ml chicken broth (or water, but broth will add more flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for decoration and flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)

Preparing the bird stew:
1. Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. It is essential to clean the meat well to achieve a clean and delicious taste.

2. Place the chicken thighs in a large pot and cover them with one liter of cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt to give the meat a base flavor. Put the pot over medium heat and bring the water to a boil. As the water starts to boil, skim off the foam with a spatula or spoon. This will help you obtain a clearer broth.

3. Let the chicken thighs boil for 30 minutes. This step is important to soften the meat and allow it to release its flavors.

4. After boiling, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and let them cool slightly. In the meantime, in the hot oil, fry the thighs until golden. This step will add a crispy texture and delicious flavor. Once fried, remove the thighs to a bowl and cover them with a lid to keep them warm.

5. In the same oil, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. Now is the time to add a bit of broth (or water) to deglaze the pan, meaning to lift all the flavor left by the chicken. Mix well.

6. In a separate bowl, dissolve the two tablespoons of flour in 300 ml of broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Pour this mixture into the pan, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches a consistency similar to that of cream. This is the secret to a creamy and rich sauce!

7. Now add the tomato paste, sweet paprika, finely chopped garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.

8. Finally, return the chicken thighs to the pan, covering each piece well with sauce. Let the stew simmer for another 10 minutes over low heat so that the flavors integrate perfectly.

9. Once ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. This detail will add a fresh and vibrant note to the dish.

Practical tips:
- You can replace chicken thighs with any other part of the bird, such as drumsticks or breast, depending on your preferences.
- For a more intense flavor, add a few peppercorns or even a pinch of chili to the sauce.
- Bird stew pairs perfectly with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. These will absorb the delicious sauce!

Nutritional benefits:
Bird stew is an excellent source of protein from chicken meat, which is easier to digest and contains less saturated fat than other types of meat. Onions and garlic bring additional benefits, having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Calories:
A serving of bird stew has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the side dish.

Delicious pairings:
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing blonde beer. Additionally, a simple green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers will provide a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey or duck meat?
Yes, the stew can also be made with other types of meat, each bringing a different flavor.

2. Can I make the stew spicier?
Of course! Add chili or hot pepper flakes to the sauce for a more intense flavor.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, add a bit more flour or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce.

4. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, bird stew can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

I hope this bird stew recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and on your table! Cooking is an art, and every recipe has its story. Try it and share it with your loved ones!