Chicken gizzards and hearts like in Brașov

Chicken gizzards and hearts sautéed with potatoes, a savory dish, is a traditional recipe that evokes warm and comforting memories, often associated with family meals on cool days. This main course not only offers an explosion of flavors but also a perfect combination of textures and nutrients, making it ideal for a comforting dinner.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g chicken gizzards and hearts
- 700 g potatoes, boiled in their skins
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- Sweet paprika, to taste

Brief history of the recipe

Dishes made with chicken hearts and gizzards have a long tradition in Romanian cuisine, often regarded as delicacies. These organs are rich in protein and nutrients, offering a healthy alternative to regular meat. Beyond their nutritional aspect, this dish has evolved over the years into a symbol of family meals, often cooked in the cold season when comfort and warmth are essential.

Step by step

1. Cleaning and preparing the gizzards and hearts
Start by cleaning the chicken gizzards and hearts. Rinse them well under cold running water to remove any impurities. It is important that they are fresh, so make sure to buy them from a trusted supplier.

2. Boiling the gizzards and hearts
Place the cleaned gizzards and hearts in a pot of salted water. Boil them for about 15-20 minutes until tender. This step not only makes them easier to cook later but also enhances their flavors.

3. Preparing the potatoes
Meanwhile, prepare the potatoes. Boiled in their skins, they retain their nutrients and flavor. Once they have cooled slightly, peel them and cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. These will be the perfect base for a tasty dish.

4. Sautéing the ingredients
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the boiled gizzards and hearts and sauté for 5 minutes until lightly browned. Then, add the potatoes, chopped onion, and crushed garlic. Stir occasionally to brown evenly.

5. Seasoning
Salt and season with pepper, thyme, and paprika to taste. This spice mix will add excellent flavor to the dish, and the heat from the paprika will intensify the taste. Continue cooking over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

6. Finishing the dish
When the potatoes are ready, add the chopped parsley and mix well. This will not only add a splash of color but also a fresh and aromatic taste.

7. Serving
Serve the dish hot, accompanied by assorted pickles. This will perfectly complement the savory taste of the chicken gizzards and hearts.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Choose quality ingredients: Ensure that the gizzards and hearts are fresh and from a trusted supplier. This will make a significant difference in taste.
- Control the temperature: Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the ingredients. Too high a temperature can lead to uneven browning.
- Variations: You can add bell peppers or carrots to the vegetable mix to diversify the flavors. Another option is to use spices like oregano or hot paprika for a more intense taste.
- Alternative serving: This dish pairs excellently with a fresh summer salad or polenta, providing a delicious contrast.

Nutritional information

Chicken gizzards and hearts are an excellent source of protein, contributing to a healthy diet. They also contain essential vitamins such as B12, which helps maintain the health of the nervous system. Potatoes, on the other hand, are rich in complex carbohydrates, providing energy without adding saturated fats.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey gizzards instead of chicken ones?
Yes, turkey gizzards can be used, but the cooking time will be different, so make sure to check that they are fully cooked.

2. How can I store the dish for the next day?
It is recommended to keep the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in a skillet or oven.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A pale beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices to accompany this main course.

This recipe for chicken gizzards and hearts sautéed with potatoes will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen. Enjoy!