Chicken Ostropel

Chicken Ostropel – A Savory Recipe for Memorable Moments

Ostropel is a traditional dish that combines the intense flavors and juicy texture of chicken with the sweetness of tomatoes and garlic. This dish is not only an excellent choice for family meals but also a way to bring a touch of warmth to colder days. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this chicken ostropel, which promises to delight anyone's taste buds.

Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 8 chicken thighs (approximately 1.2 kg)
- 3-4 tomatoes (preferably cherry tomatoes for natural sweetness)
- 200 ml dry white wine
- 1 cup water
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika
- Dried dill
- 7-8 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Olive oil (or another cooking oil)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Make sure to let them drain in a colander or on a kitchen towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving an even browning.

2. Seasoning: Season the thighs with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and dried dill. These spices will provide a rich and aromatic flavor. Let the thighs sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a deep baking dish, arrange the seasoned thighs and add the water and white wine. The wine will add a note of acidity that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and enhances the dish's flavors.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. This is the perfect time to enjoy the delicious aroma that will spread throughout the kitchen.

5. Adding the tomatoes: Once the meat has started to brown, remove the dish from the oven and add the diced tomatoes. The tomatoes will add natural sweetness and contribute to creating a rich sauce.

6. Mashing the tomatoes: After the tomatoes have softened (about 10-15 minutes), take the dish out of the oven again. Using a fork, mash the tomato cubes to form a smooth sauce. Here, you can also add a finely chopped clove of garlic for extra flavor.

7. Preparing the garlic sauce: In a bowl, crush 6-7 cloves of garlic with a pestle or the back of a spoon. Add a little salt, olive oil, and mix well, like making mayonnaise. Dilute the mixture with a little water to achieve a more liquid consistency. This garlic sauce will enhance the dish's aroma.

8. Finalizing the dish: Add the garlic sauce to the ostropel and return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant and fresh look.

9. Serving: The chicken ostropel is served warm, alongside a generous portion of creamy polenta or with a side of mashed potatoes. I recommend also preparing a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Practical tips:

- You can also use other types of meat, such as pork or beef, but the cooking time will change.
- If you want a spicier sauce, you can add a few chili flakes.
- The ostropel keeps well in the refrigerator, and the next day it is even tastier, as the flavors intensify.

Nutritional benefits:

- Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for a balanced diet.
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that benefits heart health.
- Garlic has antibacterial properties and can help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use boneless thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the baking time.

2. What type of wine is best?
A dry or semi-dry white wine will provide the best flavor, but you can experiment with rosé wine for a different aroma.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers or carrots are excellent additions.

4. Can the ostropel be frozen?
Yes, the ostropel can be frozen in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

This chicken ostropel is more than just a simple recipe; it is a family story, a reunion with traditions and flavors that make us feel at home. Whether you prepare it for a festive dinner or for an everyday meal, each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!