Chicken stew with mushrooms and sour cream

Chicken ciulama with mushrooms and sour cream is a traditional, comforting dish that combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the rich aroma of mushrooms and the creaminess of sour cream. It is a versatile dish, perfect for preparing in advance and reheating, making it ideal for busier days. It also evokes memories of family meals filled with warmth and good cheer.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken (approximately 2 kg)
- 3 large onions
- 3 green garlic stalks (or 4 regular garlic cloves)
- 1 red bell pepper
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon vegeta (or preferred spices)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cans of mushrooms (350 g/can)
- 1 box of sour cream (200 g)
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of flour (for thickening)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Oil for frying

Ingredient tips:
To achieve a richer flavor, it is recommended to use free-range or naturally raised chicken. Fresh mushrooms can also be used if available, and green garlic adds a special aroma and a touch of freshness. Substitute sour cream with a lighter version if you wish to reduce calories, but the texture will be less creamy.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the chicken:
- Wash the chicken well under cold running water. Remove any remaining feathers and cut it into appropriate pieces (thighs, breast, wings). Make sure to use a sharp knife to facilitate cutting.
- Pat each piece of chicken dry with an absorbent kitchen towel to avoid splattering hot oil.

2. Frying the chicken:
- In a large pot, add the oil and heat it up.
- Add the chicken pieces to fry, turning them to brown evenly on both sides. Do not overcrowd the pot; it is better to fry in two batches if necessary.
- Season with salt, pepper, and vegeta, then add warm water to cover the meat. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat.

3. Preparing the mushrooms:
- In another pot, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped onion. Then, add the bell pepper and garlic, allowing them to soften and release their aromas.
- Add the drained mushrooms, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Add a little water and let it simmer over moderate heat until the mushrooms are cooked.

4. Combining the ingredients:
- When the chicken is halfway cooked, add the sautéed mushrooms to the pot with the chicken. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked.
- In a bowl, beat the four eggs with the sour cream and flour, ensuring there are no lumps. You can use a whisk to achieve a smooth mixture.
- Pour the mixture over the meat and mushrooms, gently stirring to avoid breaking the chicken pieces. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Finishing the dish:
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the ciulama and let the dish cool slightly before serving.
- It is ready to serve!

Serving suggestions:
Chicken ciulama with mushrooms and sour cream pairs perfectly with sides like boiled potatoes, rice, or polenta. Personally, I prefer to serve it with new potatoes, boiled in their skins and drizzled with butter and fresh dill.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, fresh mushrooms are excellent and will add a more intense flavor to the dish. Make sure to clean them well and slice them.
- How can I store ciulama?
Ciulama stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It is even better the next day when the flavors meld together.
- Is it possible to freeze ciulama?
Although it is recommended to consume the dish fresh, you can freeze it. Make sure to portion it into airtight containers.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken ciulama is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially from the B group), and minerals due to the ingredients used. Adding mushrooms contributes to fiber and antioxidants, while sour cream provides calcium and healthy fats (if you opt for a low-fat version).

Possible variations:
For a more sophisticated version, you can add some green or black olives to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a more intense flavor.

This chicken ciulama recipe with mushrooms and sour cream is more than just a meal; it is an opportunity to gather with loved ones and create beautiful memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!