Chicken paprika with bell peppers and basil

Chicken paprikash with bell peppers and basil - a recipe that brings together the exquisite flavors of tender chicken, the sweetness of peppers, and the freshness of herbs. This dish is perfect for moments when you want to impress family or friends with a savory yet easy-to-make dish. The origins of this meal are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, being popular in various forms around the world. Paprikash is often associated with cozy, flavor-filled meals and is an ideal choice for a family dinner.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Here’s how to prepare a delicious chicken paprikash with bell peppers and basil:

Ingredients:
- 5 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for richer flavor)
- 2 large onions
- 1 bell pepper (as fresh as possible)
- a few fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup of red wine (for added flavor)
- 1 soft tomato (ideal for sauce)
- 2 garlic cloves
- olive oil (for frying)
- salt and white pepper (to taste)
- fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- For dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- flour (about 200 g)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion. You can use a food processor for a fine texture, but if you prefer a more rustic look, chop it by hand. The bell pepper should be sliced into thin rounds, and the tomato should be finely chopped. Crush the garlic.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a cauldron (or a deep pot), add a few tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This is a good time to add a little salt to help the onion release its juices.

3. Adding the chicken: Once the onion has softened, add the chicken thighs. Fry them on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, so you can work in two batches if necessary.

4. Boiling the ingredients: Once the chicken is browned, add enough water to cover the meat. Season with salt and pepper, then add half of the sliced bell pepper. Cover the cauldron and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

5. Preparing the dumplings: In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly until you get a thick, homogeneous paste, slightly thicker than pancake batter. This step is essential to achieve fluffy dumplings.

6. Finalizing the paprikash: After 20 minutes, add the remaining bell pepper, crushed garlic, chopped tomato, and red wine. Cover again and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. Here you can also add the basil leaves for extra flavor.

7. Forming the dumplings: Using a spoon, take portions of the dumpling dough and add them directly into the paprikash while it simmers. They will puff up and cook in the flavorful sauce. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

8. Serving: Once the dumplings are ready, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Serve the paprikash hot, sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley and, if you like, with pickles on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh bread to savor every drop of sauce.

Practical tips:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add some whole peppercorns or a few bay leaves during cooking.
- Instead of red wine, you can use white wine for a more aromatic version.
- Dumplings can also be made from whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- If you want a spicy note, add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken paprikash is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken meat, while the bell pepper provides a significant amount of vitamin C and antioxidants. Garlic is known for its beneficial properties for the immune system, and basil adds not only flavor but also essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
- Of course! This recipe works very well with turkey or even pork, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

2. What can I use instead of dumplings?
- If you prefer, you can serve the paprikash with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
- Although chicken paprikash is more substantial, moderate portions can be part of a balanced diet. Use olive oil in moderation and adjust the salt amount.

Ideal combinations:
Chicken paprikash pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, pickles, or a dry white wine that will balance the rich flavors of the dish. Another suggestion is a glass of cold blonde beer, which will complement the culinary landscape.

With this recipe, you will not only bring a traditional dish to the table but also create pleasant memories with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!