Chicken with carrot sauce

Delicious Chicken with Carrot Sauce Recipe

Who doesn't love a warm, delicious, and comforting meal? Today, I invite you to discover a simple and savory recipe for chicken with carrot sauce, a perfect combination of the juicy taste of chicken and the natural sweetness of carrots. This recipe, which may seem modest, has a unique charm and a rich history in traditional cuisine, where simple ingredients transform into exceptional dishes.

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

Ingredients

- 1 half free-range chicken (about 1 kg)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 large onion
- A few green onion tops
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cube of broth (Knorr or another brand)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 bay leaves
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh dill
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into suitable pieces. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Fry them for about 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy on the outside. Once the chicken is ready, remove it to a plate and let it rest.

2. Sauté the Onion: In the oil left in the skillet, add the finely chopped onion and green onion tops. Sauté them for 5-6 minutes until they become translucent and the flavors develop. This step is essential, as the onion will add a rich taste to the sauce.

3. Boil the Carrots: In a separate pot, add the peeled and diced carrots along with a cube of broth. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Let it boil for 15-20 minutes until they become soft. This step will ensure a creamy texture for the sauce.

4. Preparing the Sauce: When the carrots are ready, drain them well, reserving the cooking liquid. Mash the carrots in a blender or with a potato masher until you achieve a smooth puree. Add the carrot puree to the onion in the skillet, along with the tomato paste, basil, bay leaves, and pepper. Gradually pour in the reserved carrot cooking liquid until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Finalizing the Dish: When the sauce is ready, you can strain everything through a sieve if you want a finer texture, but it is not mandatory. Add the chopped fresh dill and green onion tops to the sauce. Season with salt to taste.

6. Serving: Place the fried chicken pieces on a plate and pour the carrot sauce over them. You can accompany this dish with fried potatoes or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy your meal!

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Chicken: When buying chicken, choose free-range chicken, which has tastier meat and a deeper flavor. This will make the dish even more savory.
- Vegan Option: If you want a vegetarian version, try replacing the chicken with tofu or mushrooms. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce and create a delicious dish.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with other spices, such as garlic or chili pepper, to add extra flavor to the sauce.
- Creative Serving: Besides fried potatoes, this dish can also be served with a fresh vegetable salad or basmati rice, which will perfectly complement the flavor of the sauce.

Nutritional Information

This chicken with carrot sauce recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken provides an excellent source of protein, while carrots are full of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and fiber. One serving has about 450 calories, depending on how the potatoes or chosen side dishes are prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or celery, to add variety to the sauce.
- How long can the sauce be stored? The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it well before serving again.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, fry the chicken and add the sauce.

A Personal Note

This chicken with carrot sauce recipe reminds me of family meals, where every ingredient was appreciated and celebrated. It is a recipe that conveys warmth and love, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. I encourage you to add your own moments and memories to this recipe, turning it into a truly special dish.

Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite. Enjoy your meal!