Chicken drumstick

Delicious Chicken Head Cheese Recipe

Discover a classic recipe, perfect for holidays or special occasions: chicken head cheese! This savory dish, with a rich history in traditional cuisine, is a true delight that will please both family and friends. Chicken head cheese is an appetizer that can be proudly served, boasting a refined taste and perfect texture. Get ready to impress with a dish that requires little effort but offers an unmistakable flavor!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3-4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 quality fresh chicken
- 30 g gelatin
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Peppercorns (about 5-6)
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Ensure it is clean and free of feather remnants. After washing, cut it into suitable pieces.

2. Arranging the ingredients: In a small pot, add the chicken pieces, gelatin, salt, bay leaves, and peppercorns. It is important to use quality gelatin, which will help achieve an excellent texture.

3. Bain-Marie method: Place the small pot in a larger one filled with water. Put everything on the heat and wait until the water in the larger pot starts to boil. This slow cooking method allows the heat to penetrate the meat evenly, preserving its juiciness. Once the water boils, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for 3-4 hours, replenishing the water in the larger pot with hot water as it evaporates.

4. Adding the herbs: Near the end of the cooking time, chop the herbs de Provence and add them to the pot with the chicken. They will provide an irresistible aroma to your dish.

5. Cooling and picking the meat: After the meat is well cooked, remove the chicken pieces onto a platter and let them cool. Once cooled, remove the skin and pick the meat from the bones.

6. Preparing the broth: In a bowl, crush the garlic cloves and add them to the remaining broth from the pot. Let it infuse for a few minutes. This infusion will give a special flavor to your dish.

7. Assembling the head cheese: Cut a plastic bottle in half and place the pieces of meat inside. Strain the broth and pour it over the meat, ensuring it is completely covered. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours, or until it sets.

8. Finalizing the dish: Once the head cheese has set, use a cutter to cut the bottle and carefully remove the head cheese. This will preserve the shape of the head cheese, giving it an elegant appearance.

9. Serving: Chicken head cheese is kept in the refrigerator and should be sliced only at the time of serving to maintain freshness. It can be served with mustard or fresh bread, alongside a green salad.

Practical tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before cooking; this will help with better flavor infusion.
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as dill or thyme, to customize the taste of the head cheese.
- Chicken head cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

Nutritional values:
This recipe is a healthy option, rich in protein, with about 250 calories per serving (varies depending on portion size and exact ingredients). Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and gelatin is beneficial for joints and skin.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken? It is recommended to use fresh chicken for the best flavor; however, if you have no other option, make sure it is completely thawed and well dried.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can add cooked vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for extra nutrients and flavor.
- How can I serve chicken head cheese? It is delicious served cold, alongside pickles, salads, or even on a platter with cheeses.

Possible variations:
- Instead of herbs de Provence, you can use an Italian herb mix for a different flavor.
- You can add spices like smoked paprika for a more intense aroma.

Chicken head cheese is not just a tasty dish but also a way to gather family around the table, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments. So, don't hesitate to try this simple recipe and enjoy the delicious results! Enjoy your meal!