Thighs with potatoes under the lid

Thighs with Potatoes Under a Lid: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to cooking, we often desire dishes that are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. The recipe for thighs with potatoes under a lid fits perfectly into this category, making it an excellent choice for a family meal or a quick yet hearty dinner. This cooking method not only saves time but also provides a unique flavor due to the steam that forms during baking.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (preferably from free-range chickens)
- 4 medium potatoes (choose suitable cooking potatoes, such as yellow ones)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (olive oil is an excellent choice for a refined taste)
- 1 cup of water
- A large pot
- A suitable lid for the pot (used upside down to create a steaming effect)

Recipe history:
The recipe for thighs with potatoes under a lid is a modern adaptation of traditional cooking techniques used for generations in kitchens around the world. Steaming has always been appreciated not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional benefits, as it helps retain the vitamins and minerals in the ingredients. This ingenious method of cooking chicken thighs with potatoes, using the pot lid, is a quick and efficient approach that blends tradition with modernity.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. You can choose to cut them into cubes, slices, or even leave them whole, depending on your preferences. Make sure the chicken thighs are well cleaned, and if desired, you can remove the skin to reduce fat content.

2. Setting up the pot: Fill the pot with water halfway. Then, use the pot lid, but place it with the handles facing inward. This trick will allow the steam to circulate effectively, cooking the meat and potatoes evenly.

3. Arranging the ingredients: Place the chicken thighs on the lid, side by side, so they do not overlap. This will allow for even cooking. Add the cut potatoes around the thighs.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle everything with 2-3 tablespoons of oil – olive oil adds a special flavor and is a healthier option. Then, add a cup of water over the ingredients to create the necessary steam for cooking.

5. Cooking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pot in the oven and let it cook for about an hour. It is important to check from time to time, and halfway through, turn the thighs and potatoes to ensure they cook evenly.

6. Serving: After the time is up, carefully remove the pot from the oven. The chicken thighs will be tender and juicy, and the potatoes will be perfectly cooked. You can serve the dish alongside a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors. An excellent option would be an arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a balsamic vinegar dressing.

Practical tips:
- If you want an extra flavor boost, you can add a few cloves of garlic or herbs (rosemary, thyme) on the thighs before cooking them.
- This recipe is easily adaptable; you can add other vegetables, such as carrots or onions, for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make sure to use a pot large enough so that the steam circulates freely, without the ingredients being too tightly packed.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, this method works very well with other types of meat, such as boneless chicken or even pork.
- How can I check if the meat is cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the chicken thigh should have an internal temperature of 75 degrees Celsius.
- Can I prepare the recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge until cooking.

Nutritional values:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs, and the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, being a good source of energy. Additionally, olive oil adds healthy fats beneficial for the heart. A serving contains approximately 450 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Possible variations:
- You can replace the potatoes with rice or quinoa, adjusting the cooking time according to the chosen ingredients.
- Add different spices, such as paprika or curry, to give the dish an exotic touch.

This recipe for thighs with potatoes under a lid is not only tasty but also a practical solution for quick family meals. By cooking with steam, you not only save oil but also create a healthy dish full of flavors. So embrace this method and enjoy a delicious dinner that will impress everyone!