Chicken stew like in Medias

Chicken stew like in Mediaș - a traditional recipe, full of flavors and warmth, that will remind you of family meals and moments spent with loved ones. This savory stew, with chicken wings and a rich sauce, is easy to prepare and will delight you with every bite. Whether you cook it for a family lunch or a special dinner, this recipe promises to be a real success.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken wings or thighs
- 2 medium onions
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 6 cloves of garlic (or more, to taste)
- A bunch of fresh parsley leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika

Recipe history:
Chicken stew has deep roots in traditional cuisine, being a dish that has been cooked through generations. In simpler times, people used ingredients from their yard or garden to create nourishing meals. This recipe is a reflection of that spirit, bringing together accessible ingredients and cooking techniques that allow the flavors to reveal themselves in all their splendor.

Preparation:
1. Start by finely chopping the onion. This will be the aromatic base of our stew. Heat a deep pot over medium heat and add a little oil. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden. This process will take about 5-7 minutes, and the aroma will be irresistible.

2. Once the onion has taken on a beautiful color, add the teaspoon of sweet paprika. This will give a deep flavor and a pleasant color to the stew. Continue to sauté the onion with paprika for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3. Now it's time to add the chicken wings. Make sure they are well washed and cleaned. Place them in the pot and mix them with the sautéed onion, allowing them to brown slightly for about 5 minutes. This will intensify the flavors.

4. Once the wings are browned, pour in enough water to cover them. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the meat will tenderize and absorb all the flavors from the onion and paprika.

5. After the wings have begun to soften, it's time to add the garlic. Crush the 6 cloves of garlic and add them to the pot, mixing well. The garlic will add a spicy note and enhance the flavor of the sauce.

6. As the stew cooks, check the water level. If it has reduced too much, you can add a little more water, but remember that a more concentrated sauce is always preferable.

7. When the wings are almost cooked, pour the flour into a small bowl and mix it with cold water until you obtain a smooth paste. Gradually add this paste to the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This step will thicken the sauce and make the stew more consistent.

8. Let the stew cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce becomes creamy and aromatic. Before stopping, add the chopped parsley, which will bring a touch of freshness to the dish.

9. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper, to your preference.

Serving and suggestions:
Chicken stew is delicious served alongside warm polenta or rice, which will absorb all the rich flavors of the sauce. You can add a simple green salad or a summer salad for a fresh contrast. If you like, you can sprinkle some chili flakes on top for an extra kick.

Tips and variations:
- If you want an even richer sauce, you can add a cup of dry white wine when you add the water. The wine will add a special depth to the flavor.
- Substitute the wings with chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enrich the dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chicken stew (about 250 g) has around 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of meat. This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and provides a good source of vitamins and minerals from the onion, garlic, and parsley.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative and will provide a different but equally delicious flavor.

2. Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Yes, chicken stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify as the days go by.

3. How can I thicken the sauce without flour?
You can use cornstarch mixed with cold water, adding it gradually to the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency.

I encourage you to try this chicken stew recipe like in Mediaș and personalize your dish, reminding you of unforgettable moments spent around the table! Enjoy your meal!