Mushroom stew with baked thighs

Mushroom stew with baked chicken thighs: a rustic and comforting delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm and hearty meal, filled with flavors that transport us to pleasant memories? The mushroom stew with baked chicken thighs is a traditional dish that combines the flavor of mushrooms with the tenderness of chicken meat, resulting in a dish that delights both in taste and appearance. This dish has a rich history, often prepared in our grandparents' homes, in times when fresh and local ingredients were readily available.

Today, I invite you to prepare this mushroom stew with baked chicken thighs, which will not only fill the table with flavor but also bring a sense of family and tradition to every bite.

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (one for each person)
- 300 g cooked mushrooms (preferably fresh, but you can also use canned mushrooms)
- 300 g sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of white flour
- 6 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 glass of white wine (preferably dry)
- 1 head of garlic (about 4-5 cloves)
- 1 large onion
- 1 glass of water
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. Wash them well under cold water and dry them with a kitchen towel. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the crushed garlic. This step is essential to ensure even marination and intense flavor.

2. Arranging in the baking dish: Place the thighs in a deep baking dish. Add the 6 tablespoons of oil and pour the white wine over them. This will help tenderize the meat and enhance the flavors.

3. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 220°C. Let them bake for 20 minutes. This step will allow the thighs to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the wine.

4. Turning the thighs: After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven, carefully lift the foil (watch out for steam), and turn the thighs using a spatula. Cover again and let them bake for another 15 minutes.

5. Finishing the baking: After 15 minutes, remove the dish again and turn the thighs once more, then leave them for another 10 minutes to brown nicely. This step is crucial to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Preparing the stew: While the thighs are baking, you can prepare the stew. Clean the onion and chop it very finely. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion over high heat until it turns golden. This process will bring out the natural sweetness of the onion.

7. Adding the mushrooms: Chop the mushrooms finely (or use a food processor) and add them to the onion. Mix well, then add the remaining crushed garlic.

8. Creating the sauce: In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour and half a glass of water. This combination will create a creamy base for the stew. Add the mixture to the pan and simmer over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt to taste.

9. Serving: The mushroom stew is versatile; you can use it either as a sauce for the thighs or as a side dish. If you choose to use it as a side, place the thighs on a bed of stew and garnish with fresh herbs or parsley for a splash of color and freshness.

Helpful tips:

- Types of mushrooms: If you can't find fresh mushrooms, you can use champignon or oyster mushrooms as an alternative. Although the taste will be different, the recipe will remain delicious.
- The wine: Choose a quality white wine, but not necessarily expensive. The wine will greatly influence the flavor of the dish, so do not underestimate its importance.
- Vegan option: For a vegan version, you can replace the chicken thighs with marinated tofu or tempeh. Substitute the sour cream with a plant-based cream to maintain the creaminess of the stew.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other mushrooms?
Yes, you can use any type of mushrooms you prefer, but the taste will be different. Mushrooms have a distinct flavor, so if you want to keep the recipe authentic, look for fresh or canned mushrooms.

2. What sides pair best?
The mushroom stew goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or simply with fresh bread to savor the delicious sauce.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stew a few hours ahead and heat it before serving. The thighs can also be cooked in advance and reheated in the oven before serving.

Nutritional values (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 600 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 40 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g

This mushroom stew with baked chicken thighs is not just a dish, but a story shared at the table. I hope this recipe becomes part of your culinary traditions and brings joy to every meal. Enjoy your meal!