Chicken Ostropel

Chicken Ostropel – a classic summer recipe, full of flavors and memories from home. This traditional dish combines juicy chicken meat with a sweet and sour tomato sauce, turning it into a delicacy you will love. Whether you enjoy it with family or friends, Ostropel is perfect for warm days, providing an explosion of tastes in every bite.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken meat (thighs, breast, or mixed)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 1-2 medium onions
- 5-6 ripe tomatoes (or canned tomatoes)
- 100 ml white wine (preferably dry)
- 200 ml broth (or water)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, pepper, vegeta, thyme, sweet paprika (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil

Preparing Chicken Ostropel

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Cut the chicken into suitable pieces so that it cooks evenly. Peel the onion and garlic, then chop the onion finely and slice the garlic thinly. The tomatoes can be peeled and grated or chopped finely, depending on your preference. It's important to choose ripe tomatoes, as they will add a sweet and flavorful taste to your sauce.

Step 2: Cooking the chicken
In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and let them brown for 5-7 minutes, until you achieve a golden crust. This step is essential for sealing in the juiciness of the meat. Once the chicken has a nice crust, pour the white wine over it and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes, until the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind its refined aroma.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sliced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. This mixture of onion and garlic will provide a delicious aromatic base for your sauce.

Step 4: Preparing the sauce
Add the grated tomatoes to the pan along with the bay leaf. Season with salt, pepper, vegeta, thyme, and sweet paprika. Mix well and let the sauce simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finishing the dish
Once the sauce has reduced slightly, add the broth (or water) and carefully return the chicken pieces to the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and let the Ostropel simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Check occasionally, stirring gently, and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Serving
When the Ostropel is ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley, which will bring a touch of freshness. Serve the Ostropel warm, alongside steaming polenta or rice, to soak up the delicious sauce. It's a perfect combination that will delight your taste buds!

Helpful tips:
- Use chicken with bones for a richer flavor. Thighs are ideal due to their juiciness.
- If you like more intense flavors, you can add chili peppers or spices like cumin.
- Instead of fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes, but make sure to choose a quality brand.
- Ostropel can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and reheats very well.

Delicious combinations:
This chicken Ostropel pairs perfectly with a simple green salad to add freshness to the meal. You can also accompany it with a glass of dry white wine to complement the flavors of the main dish.

Nutritional information:
One serving of chicken Ostropel contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and the method of serving. It is a good source of protein due to the chicken, while the tomatoes provide vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Of course! Turkey Ostropel will have a similar taste, but with a slightly different texture.

2. Can it be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and the sauce will be just as delicious.

3. How can I thicken the sauce more?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can add some flour or cornstarch diluted in water, mixing well to avoid lumps.

In conclusion, chicken Ostropel is more than just a recipe – it’s an invitation to the table, a celebration of flavors and culinary traditions. Each bite will remind you of the warmth of home and the meals shared with loved ones. I encourage you to try this simple yet flavorful recipe and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy!