Chicken stew with mushrooms and sour cream served with polenta

Chicken ciulama with mushrooms and sour cream, served with polenta – a true delight of our traditional cuisine! This recipe not only brings an intense and comforting flavor but also a story full of tradition, connecting us to the warm memories of family meals. By cooking this ciulama, you will discover not just a delicious main dish, but also a way to bring joy and warmth to the hearts of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken pieces (thighs or breast)
- 1 can of mushrooms (approximately 400 g)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely grated
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of sour cream
- 2 cups of broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- Salt, pepper, and sweet paprika to taste

The story behind the recipe
Chicken ciulama is a dish rooted in traditional cuisine, often prepared in Romanian homes for festive meals or on chilly autumn and winter days. It is a simple recipe, yet it brings a rich and comforting flavor, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. It is said that every housewife has her own version, and the ingredients can vary according to preferences.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the chicken:
Start by washing the chicken pieces well. Place them in a pot with cold water and add a teaspoon of vegetable stock or salt. Then, put the pot on medium heat and let it boil. Cover the pot with a lid and let the chicken boil for about 20 minutes, until well cooked.

2. The mushrooms:
While the chicken is boiling, prepare the mushrooms. If using canned mushrooms, drain and rinse them under cold water. In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they turn slightly golden. This step will enhance the mushroom flavor.

3. The vegetables:
In a cauldron, add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent. This mixture will add sweetness and depth to the ciulama flavor.

4. Combining the ingredients:
After the chicken is boiled, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the sautéed mushrooms, chicken pieces, and 1-2 cups of the broth in which the chicken was boiled to the cauldron. Let everything come to a boil.

5. Seasoning:
Add salt, pepper, and sweet paprika to taste. This mixture will add extra color and flavor to your dish.

6. Preparing the sauce:
In a separate pan, add the flour and lightly toast it, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes. Gradually add a little broth and sour cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. When you achieve a smooth mixture, pour this paste into the cauldron with the chicken and mushrooms.

7. Finishing the dish:
Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chopped dill and let it cook a little longer.

8. Preparing the polenta:
Meanwhile, prepare the polenta. For one serving of polenta, use 1 cup of cornmeal and 4 cups of water. Boil the water, add salt to taste, and then sprinkle the cornmeal in a rain-like manner, stirring continuously. Let it cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the polenta becomes creamy and thick.

Serving suggestions
Serve the chicken ciulama with mushrooms and sour cream alongside generous portions of warm polenta. A salad of pickled cucumbers can perfectly complement the meal, bringing a pleasant contrast between the rich flavors of the dish and the freshness of the vegetables.

Possible variations
For those who prefer a stronger flavor, you can add a teaspoon of minced garlic or even a few slices of hot pepper while sautéing the vegetables. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as champignon or shiitake, to slightly change the aromatic profile of the ciulama.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use turkey meat instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey meat is a healthy alternative and will cook similarly.

- What else can I add to the ciulama?
You can add more carrots, celery, or even peas for a varied texture and flavor.

- How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can add more flour or let the sauce simmer longer until it reduces and becomes thicker.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. The chicken provides quality protein, while the mushrooms are a good source of fiber and antioxidants. The polenta, made from cornmeal, is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, energizing you for the whole day.

Conclusion
Chicken ciulama with mushrooms and sour cream is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to the table, a way to gather family and friends to enjoy a warm and comforting dish. Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to start cooking! Enjoy your meal!