Chicken Arpacas

Barley with chicken - A delicious recipe that combines tradition and comfort

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we turn our attention to a comforting and flavorful recipe: barley with chicken. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, based on simple and accessible ingredients. Barley, a type of grain derived from barley, is packed with nutrients and offers a unique texture to our dish.

A bit of history: Barley has been used for centuries in various cultures as an energy source, being a staple food in many households. It is perfect for combining with meat, vegetables, and spices, offering plenty of culinary possibilities.

Ingredients needed:

- 500 g barley
- 2 whole chicken thighs (ideally, use free-range chicken for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 500 ml vegetable broth (or water, but broth adds much more flavor)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 250 ml white wine (optional, for an extra flavor boost)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Soak the barley: Start by placing the barley in a large bowl with cold water. Let it soak for 2 hours. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and allow it to absorb flavors better.

2. Boil the chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken thighs and enough water to cover them completely. Boil over medium heat for 40-50 minutes until the meat is tender. If you have free-range chicken, you will notice that the flavors are much richer.

3. Marinate the meat: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Debone the meat and cut it into cubes. Place the meat in a bowl and add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well and let the meat marinate for 15 minutes.

4. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic. Cook until they become slightly golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

5. Add the meat and wine: Incorporate the marinated chicken into the skillet, stirring constantly. Add the wine and continue to cook, allowing the liquid to evaporate by half. This will intensify the flavors and transform the dish into a delicacy.

6. Incorporate the barley: After the liquid has evaporated, add the barley to the skillet. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

7. Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and add oregano. Partially cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 30 minutes or until the barley is soft and the liquid has completely evaporated.

8. Finish the dish: A few minutes before removing the dish from the heat, add a splash of soy sauce to enhance the umami flavor. Mix well and then take it off the heat.

9. Serving: The barley with chicken is served warm, ideally with a generous portion of garlic and sour cream to add a creamy and flavorful touch.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the chicken: Use free-range chicken if possible, as its flavor is much richer and more authentic.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enrich the dish with vitamins and colors. Also, try adding a bit of chili for a touch of spice!
- Vegetarian alternative: If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or marinated tofu.

Nutritional benefits:

Barley is an excellent source of fiber and protein, while chicken provides essential nutrients such as B vitamins and minerals. This dish is filling and can be a great choice for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use store-bought barley? Yes, but make sure to check the cooking instructions as cooking times may vary.
2. How can I enhance the flavor? Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra freshness when serving.
3. Can this dish be frozen? Yes, the barley with chicken can be frozen. Let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Put on your apron and prepare this barley with chicken recipe. You will discover not only a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. Enjoy your meal!