Chicken stew with mashed potatoes

Chicken stew with mashed potatoes - A comforting recipe that combines rich flavors and fine textures

Total preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of chicken stew with mashed potatoes! This recipe will transform your lunch or dinner into a comforting feast, full of aromas and textures that will bring a smile to your face. Whether you're making it on a chilly day or simply want to treat yourself, this stew is the perfect choice.

A brief history of chicken stew

Stew is a dish with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being an excellent way to combine meat with vegetables and spices, all cooked slowly to bring out the natural flavors. This chicken stew recipe with mashed potatoes has evolved over time, with each cook adding their personal touch. Today, I will share my favorite version, which combines the simplicity of cooking with the joy of enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients for chicken stew:

- 500 g chicken breast or 2 chicken thighs
- 2 medium onions
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 large peeled tomatoes or 200 g tomato paste
- 1 glass of white wine
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil for sautéing

Ingredients for mashed potatoes:

- 1 kg potatoes
- 50 g butter
- 100-150 ml hot milk
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Wash the chicken well under cold running water, then dry it with paper towels. Generously season with salt, pepper, and other preferred spices. You can marinate the meat in the refrigerator for a few hours to enhance the flavors.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the onion and chop it finely. The garlic can be sliced thinly or minced, depending on your preference. If using fresh tomatoes, quickly blanch them in boiling water, then peel them.

3. Preparing the mashed potatoes: Peel the potatoes, cut them into cubes, and boil them in a pot of water with a little salt. The potatoes will boil for about 15-20 minutes until soft. Once cooked, drain them well and mash them with a potato masher or mixer. Add the butter and hot milk, mixing until you achieve a creamy mash. You can add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle flavor.

4. Cooking the stew: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, then add the garlic and the chicken cut into pieces or strips. Fry until the chicken is golden on all sides.

5. Adding the tomatoes: Once the meat is browned, add the peeled tomatoes (or tomato paste) to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

6. Seasoning: Add the spices: sweet paprika, oregano, thyme, pepper, bay leaves, and vegeta. Mix everything well and pour in the white wine. Let the stew simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the flavors develop.

7. Finalizing: Taste the stew and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Finally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

8. Serving: In a bowl greased with a little oil, place the warm mashed potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Then invert it onto a plate. Serve the chicken stew alongside the mashed potatoes, garnishing with a little parsley on top.

Practical tips:

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add some green or black olives to the stew.
- Replace the white wine with a bit of lemon juice for an alcohol-free version that will add a note of freshness.
- You can experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, adding them during cooking to diversify the dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I store the stew for later consumption?
The stew can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

3. What white wine would be best for this recipe?
Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the stew's flavors without overpowering them.

4. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides mashed potatoes, chicken stew can be served with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional benefits:

This chicken stew is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is rich in lean protein, while the vegetables provide fiber and essential antioxidants. Mashed potatoes add complex carbohydrates, essential for energy.

In conclusion, chicken stew with mashed potatoes is more than just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines history with modern comfort. I encourage you to prepare it with love and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!