Chicken stew with mushrooms

Chicken and Mushroom Ciulama: A Classic Recipe Full of Flavor

If you are looking for a comforting, tasty dish rich in tradition, chicken and mushroom ciulama is the perfect choice. This recipe is not just a soul food, but also a symbol of family gatherings around the table. Just like Ioana and her mother, who grew up with this dish, we all have recipes that bring us pleasant memories and joyful moments. Let's explore together how to prepare a delicious chicken ciulama!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 celery root (approximately 200 g)
- 3-4 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 10 champignon mushrooms
- 100 g butter
- 100 g flour
- 1.5 liters of water (or chicken broth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish
- Hot polenta for serving

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by cleaning and washing the chicken well. Make sure to remove any feathers or fat. Place it in a large pot and cover it with water. Begin to boil it over medium heat. As it starts to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove the foam so that the broth remains clear.

2. Adding the Vegetables:
After removing the foam, add the vegetables. Chop the celery, carrots, bell pepper, and red onion into large pieces or leave them whole, as preferred. Season with salt and pepper. These vegetables will not only enhance the broth's flavor but will also provide a delicious base for the ciulama.

3. Boiling the Chicken:
Let the chicken and vegetables simmer over low heat for about 40-50 minutes. Check occasionally to see if the chicken is cooked; the meat should easily come off the bone. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a platter. Allow it to cool slightly, then cut it into pieces.

4. Preparing the Ciulama:
In a large skillet, add the butter cut into pieces and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, gradually add the flour, constantly whisking to avoid lumps. It is important to achieve a smooth mixture.

5. Adding the Broth:
Begin to gradually add the broth (from the pot where the chicken was boiled), stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

6. Sautéing the Mushrooms:
Meanwhile, wash the mushrooms and slice them. In a separate skillet, sauté the mushrooms in a little butter until golden. This step will intensify the mushroom flavor and add a delicious note to the ciulama.

7. Finalizing the Dish:
Add the sautéed mushrooms to the ciulama sauce along with the chicken pieces. Gently stir to combine everything. Let the dish simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, just enough for the flavors to meld. Finally, sprinkle finely chopped herbs for a touch of freshness.

8. Serving:
Chicken ciulama is served hot, alongside steaming polenta, which perfectly complements this traditional dish. Use a spoon to add the ciulama to the plate, and the polenta can be sliced or served with a spoon, as preferred.

Helpful Tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a few peppercorns while boiling the chicken.
- For a lighter version, you can use boneless chicken, which cooks faster.
- I recommend using fresh mushrooms, but you can also opt for canned mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional Information:
A serving of chicken and mushroom ciulama contains approximately 400 calories. It is an excellent source of protein from chicken and mushrooms, while the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins.

Delicious Pairings:
This chicken ciulama pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a fruit compote for a pleasant contrast of flavors. Additionally, for a complete meal, you can add a green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, it is recommended to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even boiling.

2. How can I make the ciulama spicier?
You can add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes while preparing the sauce.

3. Can I prepare the ciulama in advance?
Absolutely! You can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheat it before serving.

A Warm Conclusion:
Chicken and mushroom ciulama is a recipe that will not only warm your soul but will also bring a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or to treat your friends, this dish will surely be appreciated. So, put on your apron, invite your loved ones, and enjoy the moments spent together! Enjoy your meal!