Chicken stew with potatoes

Chicken stew with potatoes: A simple and comforting delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a steaming stew, with enticing aromas and simple ingredients? Chicken stew with potatoes is undoubtedly a dish that evokes beautiful childhood memories, when the aroma of home-cooked food filled the entire house. This recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Ingredients:

- 2 chicken thighs (preferably bone-in for richer flavor)
- 3-4 large potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 1 ripe tomato
- 1 carrot
- 1 small bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A bunch of fresh parsley

Preparing the stew:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. This is an essential step as it will help you cook more efficiently. Blanch the chicken thighs over the stove flame to remove any feathers, then wash them well under cold running water. Cut the thighs in half to make them easier to handle.

2. Cleaning and chopping the vegetables: Peel the potatoes, onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Cut the potatoes into 6 large pieces or 4 if they are smaller. Finely chop the onion, peel the tomato and dice it, and cut the carrot into small pieces. Dice the bell pepper after removing the stem and seeds.

3. Cooking the stew: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Then, add the chicken thighs and brown them for about 1 minute on each side to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

4. Adding water: Once the thighs are browned, pour 2 cups of water over them. Wait for it to start boiling and skim off any foam that forms on the surface with a spatula to achieve a clearer and tastier sauce.

5. Adding the vegetables: Once the water starts boiling, add the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and tomato to the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat.

6. Potatoes: When the chicken is halfway cooked (about 20-25 minutes), add the potatoes. If you notice that the sauce is too little, don't hesitate to add a bit of hot water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finalizing: Let the stew simmer until all the ingredients are cooked and the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Finally, add the tomato paste and let it boil for another 2-3 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and give a richer taste to the dish.

8. Serving: When the stew is ready, finely chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it on top. Serve the stew hot, alongside a fresh salad of white and red cabbage, to complete your meals with freshness and crunch.

Tips and useful advice:

- If you want a spicier stew, you can add a bit of chili pepper or even a pinch of chili powder.
- Instead of tomato paste, you can experiment with tomato sauce or even roasted pepper sauce for a different twist.
- This stew is easily adaptable. You can add vegetables like peas, green beans, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken stew with potatoes is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken thighs, while the potatoes provide carbohydrates that will give you energy. The added vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a balanced and nutritious meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Absolutely! Turkey is a healthy and equally tasty alternative.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, adding more vegetables for a rich flavor.

3. How long does the stew last in the fridge?
- The stew keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves after a few days.

Chicken stew with potatoes is a versatile dish that can be customized according to your culinary preferences. Whether you choose to serve it with a fresh salad or a slice of fresh bread, this dish will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!