Chicken stew

Chicken Stew: A Comforting Delight

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

History and Tradition

Chicken stew is a recipe that comes from the culinary traditions of many cultures, where tender meat is slowly cooked to retain its juiciness and flavors. This cooking method has been used over time due to its efficiency, and the result is always a comforting meal full of taste. Traditionally, the stew was prepared with fresh ingredients from the garden, and each cook added their personal touch to the recipe.

Essential Ingredients

To prepare this delicious chicken stew, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 chicken drumsticks (approximately 500-600 g)
- 5 green onions
- 5 green garlic stalks
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 250 ml water (to braise the meat)

Ingredient Tips

Choose fresh chicken drumsticks with skin and bone for a richer flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is ideal, as it adds a flavorful note. Green onions and green garlic not only provide a unique taste but also add a touch of freshness to the dish. The tomato paste will enhance the sauce's flavor, so don’t skip it!

Step by Step: Chicken Stew Recipe

1. Preparing the Meat: Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well and patting them dry with a paper towel. In a large skillet, heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the drumsticks and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes until golden. This step is essential as browning helps develop the flavors.

2. Braising: Once the meat is browned, add a glass of water (approximately 250 ml) to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the meat to become tender.

3. Preparing the Vegetables: Meanwhile, clean the green onions and green garlic. Slice the onions into rounds of about 1-2 cm and chop the garlic into smaller pieces. In a separate skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic over low heat for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.

4. Combining Ingredients: Once the meat is nearly done (it should be tender and easily pull away from the bone), add the sautéed onions and garlic to the skillet. Mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Making the Sauce: In a cup, mix the tablespoon of tomato paste with a little cold water, then pour the mixture over the meat. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet again and let it simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meat is fully cooked.

6. Serving: The chicken stew is served hot, ideally alongside a side of polenta or mashed potatoes, which will soak up the delicious sauce. You can add a fresh vegetable salad for a crunchy contrast.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

To personalize this recipe, try adding diced carrots or bell peppers for an extra burst of color and nutrients. You can also replace the drumsticks with chicken thighs for a richer texture.

If you want to elevate the stew into a more sophisticated dish, add some green or black olives during the final cooking stage. They will add a wonderful Mediterranean touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as turkey or pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used to make a delicious soup or added to a sandwich with fresh vegetables.

3. How can I store the stew?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days.

4. Is this dish healthy?
Yes, chicken stew is a healthy option, being rich in protein and vegetables. By using olive oil, you also add healthy fats to your diet.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of chicken stew (approximately 150 g) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. This is a nutritious meal, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh ingredients used.

I hope this chicken stew recipe becomes a part of your culinary repertoire! It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Experiment and adapt the recipe to your preferences, and the result will always be a delicious meal. Enjoy!