The Transylvanian Cricala

Ardelenească Cricala - a delicacy from the heart of Transylvania

I invite you to discover a traditional recipe that brings the rich flavors of Transylvania to your table: Ardelenească Cricala. This dish, based on simple ingredients carefully transformed through traditional techniques, will fill your home with enticing aromas and provide you with a hearty meal, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 750 g chicken meat (preferably thighs or breast)
- 650 g onions
- 1 tablespoon roasted pepper paste
- 1 teaspoon spicy goulash cream (for an extra flavor boost)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 200 ml wine (use a dry white wine to enhance the flavors)
- 100 g lard (or butter, if you prefer a milder taste)
- 1 large tomato
- 1/2 bell pepper (red or green, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sweet or hot paprika, to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Brief history
Cricala has deep roots in traditional Romanian cuisine, being a dish lovingly prepared in the homes of Transylvanians. It is said that the name comes from the cooking method, which involves slow and covered cooking, preserving all the juices and flavors of the ingredients. It is a recipe that reflects the richness and diversity of the region's gastronomy, often associated with family meals and celebrations.

Step by step – Preparing Ardelenească Cricala

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by thoroughly washing the chicken meat and cutting it into suitably sized pieces (about 5 cm). This will help with even cooking. Chop the onion finely, slice the garlic, and dice the tomato and bell pepper. Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting to cook for an efficient workflow.

2. Browning the meat
In a large pot, add the lard and let it melt over medium heat. Once the lard is well heated, add the chicken pieces and fry them until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside on a plate. This step is essential as it will give the meat a crispy texture and rich flavor.

3. Cooking the vegetables
In the same pot, let the lard heat up again, then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion on low heat until it becomes transparent and starts to caramelize, about 10 minutes. This process will bring out the natural sweetness of the onion, adding depth to the dish.

4. Adding the meat and spices
Once the onion has softened, add the browned chicken pieces back into the pot. Add the sliced garlic, roasted pepper paste, and goulash cream. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.

5. Deglazing with wine
Pour the wine over the meat and vegetables in the pot, stirring everything to lift the flavors from the bottom of the pot. This will add a note of acidity and enrich the final taste of the dish.

6. Covered cooking
Add the diced tomato and bell pepper, stirring gently. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 45 minutes. It is important not to stir with a spoon at this stage; instead, gently shake the pot a few times to avoid breaking the texture of the meat and vegetables. This process will allow the ingredients to meld and soften in their own juices.

7. Finalizing the dish
After 30 minutes of cooking, lift the lid and check the liquid level. If necessary, add a little more wine to prevent sticking. After 45 minutes, add the freshly chopped parsley and stir gently.

8. Serving
Cricala is served hot, alongside steaming polenta. This will absorb the rich flavors of the dish and make every bite a true delight. Sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add a finely chopped hot pepper while sautéing the onion.
- Cricala can also be made with pork or beef, adjusting the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the dish.
- Ensure that the wine you use is of good quality, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use oil instead of lard?
Yes, you can replace lard with olive or sunflower oil, but the taste will be slightly different.

2. Can Cricala be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Cricala after it has completely cooled. When reheating, add a little water or wine to rehydrate the dish.

3. What side dishes go well with Cricala?
In addition to polenta, you can serve Cricala with a fresh green salad to add a contrast of textures and balance the flavors.

Nutritional benefits
Ardelenească Cricala is a very filling dish, due to its content of meat and vegetables. Onions and garlic are known for their antioxidant properties, and parsley adds a note of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the wine adds a flavor note, contributing to the complexity of the taste.

In conclusion, Ardelenească Cricala is a dish that blends tradition with the authentic flavors of nature. By cooking this recipe, you not only enjoy a delicious meal but also a culinary experience full of story. So embrace this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its aromas in every bite. Enjoy your meal!