Chicken hearts and gizzards stew

Chicken hearts and gizzards stew - A traditional recipe with an unforgettable flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Total time: 1 hour Number of servings: 4

Chicken hearts and gizzards stew is a recipe that combines culinary tradition with a rich and comforting taste. This dish, loved by many, has deep roots in our gastronomy, often prepared in families during festive meals or simply when we want to indulge in a savory dish. Additionally, it is a very accessible and simple recipe, perfect for days when we don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen, but still want to enjoy a delicious meal.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 medium onion
- 600 g chicken gizzards and hearts
- 500 ml milk
- 400 ml meat broth (from boiled meat)
- 130 g flour
- 1 teaspoon seasoning (or homemade vegetable mix)
- 100 ml oil
- 60 g butter
- 1 bunch of dill
- 1 bunch of parsley
- Pepper to taste

Preparation of chicken hearts and gizzards stew

Step 1: Washing and preparing the meat
The first step is to take care of the chicken gizzards and hearts. We wash the meat well under cold water and clean it of any impurities. Once done, we boil them in a pot with water and a pinch of salt to release their flavors. Let them boil for about 20-25 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Preparing the aromatic base
While the meat is boiling, we take care of the onion. We peel and finely chop the onion. In a deep pan, we heat the oil, then add the chopped onion. We let it sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden and soft. This step is crucial as the onion will add a sweet flavor and a special depth to the stew.

If you prefer a less sweet stew, you can omit the onion, but I advise you to try it with onion, as it adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the sauce
When the gizzards and hearts are cooked, we remove them from the water and cut them into smaller pieces. We add the chopped meat to the pan with sautéed onion, mixing well to combine the flavors. Now is the time to add the butter, letting it melt slowly.

Step 4: Forming the stew
After the butter has melted, we gradually add the flour, whisking vigorously. It is important to act quickly to avoid lumps. As you mix, a sauce begins to form. Start adding the hot meat broth gradually. Continuing to stir, you will notice how the stew becomes creamier. When you finish adding the broth, continue with the hot milk, mixing until the sauce reaches the desired consistency, similar to flowing sour cream.

Step 5: Final cooking
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, let the stew simmer on low heat for a few minutes. You will notice small bubbles forming on the surface, indicating that it is almost ready. At this point, finely chop the dill and parsley and add them to the stew, along with pepper to taste. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Serving
Chicken hearts and gizzards stew is served hot, alongside steaming polenta, which perfectly complements this dish. The polenta adds a pleasant texture and a special taste, transforming the meal into a truly comforting experience.

Practical tip: If you want to add an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh dill or parsley on top before serving. This will not only enrich the taste but also give a more pleasant appearance to the dish.

Possible variations:
For a more sophisticated version, you can add sautéed fresh mushrooms in oil along with the onion. Additionally, a splash of sour cream at the end will bring extra creaminess, turning the stew into a delightful treat. You can also experiment with different spices, such as paprika or marjoram, to customize the flavors to your liking.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken gizzards and hearts are excellent sources of protein and essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Combined with fresh greens, this dish becomes not only delicious but also healthy. It is an excellent option for those looking to improve their protein intake without consuming red meat.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken meat from other parts?
Of course! If you don’t have access to gizzards and hearts, you can use boneless chicken meat. However, the texture and taste will be different.

2. What type of oil is best for cooking?
You can use sunflower oil or olive oil. Each brings a distinct flavor but behaves well in cooking.

3. How can I store the stew if I have leftovers?
It is recommended to store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or on the stove, adding a little milk to restore its consistency.

4. What other recipes or drinks can be combined?
Chicken hearts and gizzards stew pairs wonderfully with steaming polenta or a fresh green salad. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea or white wine, can perfectly complement the meal.

I wish you success in preparing this delicious stew! I hope you enjoy every bite, just as I have every time I cooked it. Bon appétit!