Chicken paprika with sour cream and flour dumplings

Chicken Paprikash with Sour Cream and Dumplings

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Welcome to the land of delicious flavors! Today we will prepare a classic, comforting, and flavorful dish: chicken paprikash with sour cream and dumplings. This recipe not only combines simple ingredients but also offers an explosion of taste that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Moreover, it is a perfect recipe for family meals or a special dinner on the weekend.

A bit of history: Paprikash is a popular dish with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, it has been cooked in countless ways, but its essence remains the same: tender meat, creamy sauce, and rich flavors. The dumplings are a perfect accompaniment, providing a soft and fluffy texture that absorbs all the sauce's flavor.

Let's get started!

Ingredients

For the paprikash:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (preferably full-fat)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped

For the dumplings:
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 3 heaping tablespoons flour
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dumplings

1. In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt until frothy.
2. Gradually add the oil, continuing to mix well. This step is essential, as the oil will help the dumplings be fluffy.
3. Incorporate the flour gradually, stirring constantly, until you obtain a sticky mixture, slightly thicker than full-fat sour cream. I recommend using quality flour for perfect dumpling texture.

Step 2: Boiling the dumplings

1. Fill a pot halfway with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
2. When the water starts boiling, use a teaspoon to scoop portions of the dumpling mixture and drop them into the boiling water. They will detach and take on a nice shape.
3. Let the dumplings boil for 15-20 minutes. Don’t forget to check them occasionally to ensure they are cooked evenly.

Step 3: Preparing the paprikash

1. In a large ceramic-coated skillet, add a little oil and a cup of water. Bring to medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the vegetables soften. This step is essential for developing flavors.
3. Once the vegetables are soft and the water has evaporated, add the sour cream and mix well. After 1-2 minutes, add the previously fried chicken thighs. If desired, you can season and fry them a bit before adding them to the sauce.
4. Add the tomato paste, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine the flavors. The paprikash will take on a vibrant color and irresistible aroma.
5. After 2-3 minutes, add two cups of hot water to the skillet and carefully introduce the cooked dumplings. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Dissolve a tablespoon of flour in cold water and add the mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously. This step will thicken the sauce and give the paprikash a creamy texture.
7. After 5 minutes, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley, which will bring a touch of freshness and flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Serving

The chicken paprikash with sour cream and dumplings is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a green salad. You can also add a bit of hot pepper if you like it spicy! A bottle of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips

- For a richer paprikash: You can add some sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with tofu or vegetables of your choice.
- Storage: Paprikash keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated without issues.
- Calories: A serving of chicken paprikash contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used and the portion of dumplings.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative and will add a different flavor.

2. How can I make the dumplings lighter?
You can add a little baking soda to the mixture to make them fluffier.

3. What other recipes can I try?
Chicken paprikash goes well with a white cabbage salad or mashed potatoes. You can also try serving it with a portion of plain rice or steamed vegetables.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all you have to do is put on your apron and enjoy this delicious recipe! Cooking is an art form, so don’t hesitate to experiment and add your own personal touches. Enjoy your meal!