Chicken and mushroom ciulama

Chicken and Mushroom Ciulama – A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm, comforting dish that fills your heart with joy? Chicken and Mushroom Ciulama is one of those recipes that will not only enrich your meals but also bring a touch of nostalgia. It is a classic dish, cherished by generations, that combines the tenderness of chicken with the rich flavors of mushrooms and a creamy sauce, perfect to be enjoyed alongside polenta or fresh bread.

The history of ciulama is ancient, with roots in traditional Romanian cuisine, where it was often prepared on festive days or special occasions. This simple and quick recipe is a perfect example of how humble ingredients can create a delicious dish full of character. Let’s see how we can make this delicacy together!

Ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 boneless chicken breast
- 350 g canned mushrooms (or fresh, if you want a more intense flavor)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 4 tablespoons sour cream (for a richer sauce, opt for full-fat sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Fresh dill (for garnish and flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for an extra flavor)

Step by Step: Preparing the Ciulama

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by washing the chicken thighs well, removing any fuzz or impurities. It is essential for the meat to be clean to achieve a delicious taste. Then, cut the chicken breast into suitable pieces so that it cooks evenly. Peel and finely chop the onion, peel and slice the carrot, and wash and slice the mushrooms.

Step 2: Brown the meat

In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the thighs and chicken breast pieces, browning them on both sides for about 5-7 minutes until golden. This step is essential for adding depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Add the vegetables

Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté everything for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help release the flavors from the vegetables, giving a more intense taste to the ciulama.

Step 4: Boiling

Add the sliced carrot and cover everything with water. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes. It is important to monitor the water level so that it does not evaporate completely. When the meat is well cooked and tender, reduce the water so that you have enough liquid left for the sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the sauce

When the meat is ready, add salt, pepper, and dried parsley to taste. In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in a little water, then strain it to avoid lumps. Add the mixture to the skillet and stir well. Let it come to a boil, and the sauce will start to thicken. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little more flour.

Step 6: Finalizing the ciulama

After the sauce has thickened, add the sour cream and mix well to incorporate. Let it simmer for another minute, then remove the ciulama from the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill on top for a touch of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and Mushroom Ciulama is served hot, alongside soft polenta or fresh bread, which will soak up the delicious sauce. You can add a green salad on the side for a contrast of textures and flavors. This dish is perfect for a family meal or to impress guests.

Variations and Useful Tips

If you want to experiment with this recipe, you can replace canned mushrooms with fresh ones, which will add a more intense flavor and a crunchier texture. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the dish.

For a more aromatic taste, feel free to add spices like paprika or garlic. By trying different combinations, you can customize this recipe to your preferences.

Nutritional Information

Chicken and Mushroom Ciulama is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, and mushrooms provide vitamins and minerals. A serving of ciulama has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream and oil used. It is a nutritious and satisfying dish, ideal for inclusion in your daily diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey meat is a healthy and tasty alternative that will fit perfectly into this recipe.

2. How can I make ciulama spicier?
You can add hot peppers or spicy seasonings to taste, to give it a more fiery flavor.

3. What can I do with leftover ciulama?
You can use ciulama as a filling for pies or pancakes, or you can reheat it the next day and serve it again.

Conclusion

Chicken and Mushroom Ciulama is a simple yet flavorful dish that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This recipe will provide you not only with a delicious lunch or dinner but also the opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table. I invite you to try it and share with us how it turned out! Enjoy your meal!