Chicken Ostropel

Chicken Ostropel: A Treasure of Traditional Flavor

Chicken ostropel is a recipe that has transcended generations, being not only a delicious dish but also a part of culinary tradition. It is a meal that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and a savory sauce, perfect for enjoying alongside a serving of warm polenta. This simple and healthy recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a comforting lunch. Let’s see together how we can prepare the perfect chicken ostropel!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 8 chicken thighs (about 1 kg)
- 3-4 tomatoes (I recommend cherry tomatoes for a sweet and aromatic taste)
- 200 ml dry white wine (choose a quality wine that you would be willing to drink)
- 1 cup water (about 250 ml)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a slightly smoky note)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh, if available)
- 7-8 cloves of garlic (fresh, for an intense flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Olive oil or sunflower oil (for browning the thighs)

Necessary utensils

- A deep baking dish
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon
- A fork
- A bowl for the garlic sauce

Step by Step

1. Prepare the chicken thighs
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Let them drain on a kitchen rack. These thighs are ideal for ostropel due to their tender and juicy meat. Generously season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried dill. These spices will add depth to the flavor.

2. Brown the thighs
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a baking dish. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them brown for 5-7 minutes until golden. This step is essential as it will provide a crispy texture and delicious aroma.

3. Add the liquids
Once the thighs are browned, flip them over. Add the white wine and water to the dish. The wine will add a pleasant acidity and help tenderize the meat during cooking.

4. Begin baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake the thighs for 30 minutes. This time allows the meat to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the liquid.

5. Add the tomatoes
After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the diced tomatoes. If using cherry tomatoes, you can leave them whole for a more attractive appearance. Gently stir to combine them with the sauce. Cover again with foil and return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, until the tomatoes soften.

6. Prepare the garlic sauce
While the ostropel is in the oven, prepare the garlic sauce. Crush the garlic cloves in a bowl, add a pinch of salt and a few drops of oil. Mix well, then dilute with a little water. This sauce will perfectly complement the tomato sauce.

7. Finalize the sauce
Once the tomatoes are soft, remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, mash the tomato pieces to form a smooth sauce. Add the garlic sauce and mix well. Return the dish to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

8. Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness. The ostropel is served hot, accompanied by a generous portion of polenta or a side of steamed vegetables.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can also add other vegetables to the sauce, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the dish. Additionally, try using black garlic for a more complex flavor.
- Perfect dessert: After such a hearty main course, a light dessert, like a fruit salad with yogurt, would be perfect to conclude the meal.
- Recommended drinks: A glass of dry white wine, similar to the one used in the preparation, will perfectly complement the flavor of the ostropel. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a cold herbal tea would be an excellent choice.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of chicken ostropel contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion of polenta and the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential minerals such as vitamin C and potassium. Garlic, in addition to its delicious flavor, offers health benefits with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but the cooking time will be shorter, so monitor the meat closely to avoid drying it out.

2. How can I store the ostropel?
The ostropel can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop.

3. Can the ostropel be frozen?
Yes, the ostropel can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it is well packaged in appropriate containers for freezing.

So, prepare this traditional recipe with confidence and enjoy every bite. Chicken ostropel is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that will remind you of the moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!