Summer Paprikash

Summer Paprika: A Flavorful and Satisfying Delicacy

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

I invite you to embark on a culinary adventure with summer paprika, a savory dish full of intense flavors and vibrant colors. This recipe combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a comforting meal, perfect for summer gatherings. Summer paprika symbolizes the joy of cooking and sharing beautiful moments with loved ones.

Ingredients you need:

- 5 chicken thighs (skinless, for a healthier dish)
- 2 carrots (preferably fresh and crunchy)
- 1 bell pepper (for a sweet and aromatic touch)
- 1 medium white onion (finely chopped)
- 1 green onion (for added freshness)
- 2 eggs (fresh, from a trusted source)
- 200 g flour (wheat, for fluffy dumplings)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil (quality, for a perfect taste)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for extra flavor)
- Spices: salt, white pepper, sweet paprika (or smoked, to taste)
- 100 ml red wine (or white, for an elegant note)
- Fresh dill (finely chopped, to provide a fresh taste)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Finely chop the white onion, grate the carrots, and dice the bell pepper. These vegetables will form the flavorful base of your dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pan or cauldron, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, a teaspoon of salt, and white pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and starts to soften. Then add the grated carrot and minced garlic. Let the vegetables sauté and blend their flavors for 2-3 minutes.

3. Boiling the chicken thighs: In a separate pot, place the chicken thighs in cold water, add a little seasoning or salt, and let them boil for about 10 minutes. This process will help retain the juices in the meat and add flavor to the final dish.

4. Adding the wine and chicken thighs: After the vegetables have sautéed, deglaze with red wine (or white, if you prefer) and mix well. Transfer the chicken thighs to the cauldron, along with the broth they boiled in. Cover the cauldron with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This step will ensure the chicken absorbs the flavors of the vegetables and wine.

5. Preparing the dumplings: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a fork until you achieve a smooth paste. The dumplings will add a pleasant texture to your paprika.

6. Forming the dumplings: Using a spoon, scoop small amounts of dumpling dough and drop them into the cauldron, directly into the boiling sauce. They will puff up and become fluffy during cooking.

7. Finishing the dish: If you want a thicker sauce, you can add 2 tablespoons of flour thinned with water. Mix well and let it boil for another 7 minutes, adding the freshly chopped dill at the end to provide a fresh and aromatic taste.

Serving:

Summer paprika is served hot, alongside a fresh salad or a side of polenta, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish. A slice of fresh bread will also be an excellent accompaniment to savor the delicious sauce.

Useful tips and variations:

- For a more intense flavor: You can use chicken thighs with bones to add more savor. You can also adapt it with turkey or even beef, depending on your preferences.
- Alternative spices: If you like a spicier taste, you can add a pinch of chili powder or whole peppercorns. Experimentation is key in the kitchen!
- Vegetarian variations: For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu. Make sure to sauté the vegetables well to achieve a pleasant texture.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe has approximately 450 calories per serving, being a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and chicken. It is an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with turkey or beef. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat.

2. What drinks pair well with paprika?
A dry white or red wine pairs perfectly. Also, fresh lemonade or a light beer can complement the flavors well.

3. How can I preserve leftover paprika?
It keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Now that you have all this information, you are ready to prepare a delicious summer paprika, full of flavors that will delight your senses. Enjoy your meal!