Good stew

Chicken stew with mushrooms and potatoes - a delicious and comforting recipe

When it comes to dishes that remind us of family meals, stew is undoubtedly a classic. This chicken stew with mushrooms and potatoes recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. It is a perfect dish for chilly evenings or any occasion when you want to indulge in something delicious.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 3 medium potatoes (preferably red or white for a creamy texture)
- 1 jar of mushrooms (about 400-500 g, champignon mushrooms are an excellent choice)
- 1 chicken breast (about 500 g, cut into cubes)
- 1 carrot (sliced thinly)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of vegeta (or other preferred spice mix)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried dill
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or other cooking oil)
- 1 cup (about 250 ml) of water

Preparation steps:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into medium-sized cubes. Slice the carrot thinly, and finely chop the onion. Cut the chicken breast into even cubes to ensure even cooking. If using jarred mushrooms, make sure to drain them well.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the stew.

3. Adding the meat: Once the onion and carrot are ready, add the chicken breast cubes. Mix well and let them simmer for 5-10 minutes until the meat changes color and becomes slightly browned. This step will ensure a juicy texture and distinct flavor.

4. Including the mushrooms: Add the drained mushrooms. Mix well and let them sauté together with the other ingredients for another 5 minutes. The mushrooms will add a rich umami flavor to the stew.

5. Adding the potatoes: Now it's time to include the cut potatoes. Mix everything well and add a cup of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 20 minutes until the potatoes are cooked.

6. Seasoning: After the potatoes have cooked, add salt, pepper, vegeta, sweet paprika, thyme, basil, and dill. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.

7. Serving: Once the stew is ready, take it off the heat. You can serve it warm alongside a slice of fresh bread or a crisp green salad. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the tastier the stew will be. If you find seasonal vegetables, feel free to use them.
- Vary the mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as porcini or shiitake, to add a distinct note.
- Add vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas, for a more colorful and nutritious stew.
- Cook with love: Cooking is an art, and every recipe becomes better when prepared with passion.

Nutritional information:
This chicken stew with mushrooms and potatoes is rich in protein due to the chicken breast and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. One serving has about 350-400 calories, making it a balanced and filling dish.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork or beef? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using other types of meat, but the cooking time may vary.
2. How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a bit of hot pepper or chili flakes for a spicier taste.
3. Is this recipe good for freezing? Yes, the stew can be frozen and kept for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Ideal pairings:
This delicious stew pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a light beer. Additionally, a summer salad or a side of rice or polenta can complement this main dish.

This chicken stew with mushrooms and potatoes recipe is not only an excellent choice for a family dinner but also an opportunity to explore flavors and ingredient combinations. By preparing it, you will bring not only healthy nutrients to the table but also moments of joy with your loved ones. By trying this recipe, you will discover how simple and satisfying it can be to cook at home!