Chicken breast (Soprema de pollo) with tamarind sauce and zucchini meatballs

Chicken Breast with Tamarind Sauce and Zucchini Fritters – A Flavorful and Colorful Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a delicious meal that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of tamarind sauce with the juiciness of chicken breast? This recipe, inspired by distant traditions, brings a touch of exoticism to your plate. The crispy and aromatic zucchini fritters perfectly complement this dish, turning it into an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unique combination!

Ingredients needed:

- 200 g tamarind
- 2 chicken breasts
- 5-6 slices of ham
- 5-6 slices of cheese (preferably a firmer type)
- 1/2 bunch of cilantro or parsley, to taste
- 100 ml liquid cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium zucchini (approximately 300 g)
- 1 egg
- Olive oil and butter for frying

Preparation technique:

Step 1: Making the tamarind sauce

1. Start by preparing the tamarind sauce. Place 200 g of tamarind in a small pot and add warm water, enough to cover the tamarind.
2. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the tamarind pulp will break down, and the liquid will take on a brown color.
3. Once you achieve a smooth consistency, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Use a sieve to strain the mixture, ensuring you are left with a smooth liquid, free of seeds.

Step 2: Preparing the chicken rolls

1. Meanwhile, prepare the chicken breasts. Flatten each piece with a meat mallet or a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.
2. On each piece of chicken, place a slice of ham, a slice of cheese, and a bit of cilantro or parsley.
3. Roll each piece tightly and secure the ends with toothpicks to maintain their shape.

Step 3: Cooking the chicken rolls

1. In a large skillet, add a combination of olive oil and butter, enough to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat over medium heat.
2. Place the chicken rolls in the skillet and fry on all sides until golden and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. After frying, transfer the rolls to a baking dish, cover with tamarind sauce, and bake for 20 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius.
4. After this time, add 100 ml of liquid cream over the rolls and bake for another 10 minutes.

Step 4: Preparing the zucchini fritters

1. Meanwhile, peel the zucchini and grate it using a large grater. Place it in a bowl and squeeze out the excess liquid. This step is crucial to avoid soggy fritters!
2. Add a beaten egg, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix the ingredients well.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Using a spoon, form fritters from the zucchini mixture and fry on both sides until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them to paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Serving

1. Once the chicken rolls are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully remove the toothpicks.
2. Serve the chicken rolls alongside the zucchini fritters, garnished with fresh herbs for an added touch of color and flavor. This dish is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Helpful tips:

- About tamarind: Tamarind is a versatile ingredient often used in various dishes due to its sweet and tangy taste. If you can't find fresh tamarind, you can use tamarind paste available in specialty stores.
- Zucchini fritters: You can also add feta cheese or Parmesan to the zucchini mixture for a richer flavor. Additionally, for a healthier option, you can bake the fritters in the oven instead of frying them.
- Chicken rolls: Instead of ham, you can experiment with bacon or even grilled vegetables to add a vegetarian twist to this dish.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I substitute tamarind with something else? Although the flavor won't be exactly the same, you can use a mixture of soy sauce and honey for a similar taste.
- How can I make this recipe easier? You can use pre-cut chicken breasts and ready-made sauces available in stores.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A pale lager or a dry white wine are excellent choices. Additionally, a fruit tea or a refreshing citrus cocktail can perfectly complement the meal.

This recipe for chicken breast with tamarind sauce and zucchini fritters is not just a delicious meal but also an opportunity to explore new flavors and culinary techniques. Each step is a journey of tastes, and the final result will bring joy to your tables. Enjoy your meal!