Chicken Ostropel with Dumplings

Chicken Ostropel with Dumplings - A Savory and Comforting Recipe

On a chilly day or when you need a dish that brings a touch of warmth to your heart, chicken ostropel with dumplings is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tradition with an unforgettable taste, being a delicious blend of ostropel and goulash. Here’s how to prepare this tasty meal step by step.

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

Necessary Ingredients

For the ostropel:
- 4 chicken thighs (preferably from free-range chickens)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 small pepper (red or green)
- 2 fresh or canned tomatoes
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of cooking cream (preferably sweet)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon of fresh or dried basil

For the dumplings:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- Flour, as needed (approximately 150g, for a thick consistency)

Preparing the Ostropel

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken thighs well. Then, in a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. Fry them on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In the remaining oil, add the finely chopped onion and diced pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. This step is essential for adding flavor to the dish.

3. Add the tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, wash them, dice them, and add them to the skillet. If using canned tomatoes, you can add them directly. Let them simmer for a few minutes until the tomatoes release their juice.

4. Transform into sauce: After the vegetables have cooked for a few minutes, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Use a blender to turn the mixture into a smooth paste. This step will create a creamy and rich sauce.

5. Combine the ingredients: Put the vegetable paste back in the skillet, add the fried chicken thighs, then add the tomato paste, thyme, dill, and basil. Season with salt and pepper, then add a cup of water. Finally, add the crushed garlic.

6. Cook the ostropel: Cover the skillet and let the ostropel simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes until the meat is tender and well-cooked. Check occasionally, adding water if necessary. Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the cream for extra creaminess.

Preparing the Dumplings

1. Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, beat the egg well with a tablespoon of oil. Gradually add flour, stirring continuously until you obtain a mixture with the consistency of thick batter. Don’t hesitate to use a little extra flour if necessary.

2. Boil the dumplings: Put a pot of water to boil. When the water is boiling, take spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture and form balls. Add them to the boiling water and let them cook for 10-12 minutes. The dumplings are ready when they rise to the surface.

3. Finalizing the dish: Once the dumplings are ready, transfer them to the chicken ostropel, gently mixing to incorporate them. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors can combine.

Serving

Serve the chicken ostropel with dumplings hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley on top. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or pickles, providing a pleasant contrast to the rich flavors of the sauce.

Useful Tips

- Choose fresh ingredients: Use quality chicken and fresh vegetables for better taste. Canned tomatoes can be a good choice out of season, but fresh ones add vibrant flavor.
- Vary the spices: You can experiment with herbs, adding oregano or rosemary for a different taste.
- Add extra flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a more complex taste. This will give the ostropel a more sophisticated note, ideal for a special dinner.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken ostropel is a good source of protein from meat, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Olive oil brings healthy fats, and the dumplings, although rich in carbohydrates, can provide quick energy. However, consume in moderation and adjust portions according to your nutritional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use turkey or pork? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using turkey or pork, but the cooking time may change.
- How can I make the dumplings fluffier? Make sure not to add too much flour to the mixture. The consistency should be dense but not too hard to mix.
- What other sides go well with the ostropel? Besides dumplings, rice or mashed potatoes are excellent sides that complement this dish.

Creative Variations

- Chicken Ostropel with Mushrooms: Add fresh mushrooms to the sauce for extra moisture and flavor.
- Spicy Ostropel: If you like spicy food, add chopped hot pepper to the sauce for a kick of heat.

This chicken ostropel with dumplings recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will remind you of family gatherings, the warmth of home, and the joy of cooking with love. So, put on your apron and let’s enjoy a delicious meal!