Vegetable stew with chicken and olives

The vegetable stew with chicken and olives is a comforting recipe, perfect for days when you want to indulge in a tasty and nutritious dish. This stew brings together a delicious combination of fresh vegetables and chicken meat, enriched with the unique flavors of olives. It is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring you a sense of well-being, thanks to the healthy ingredients it contains.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300 g)
- 300 g olives (preferably green, for a more pronounced taste)
- 3 large onions
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 50 ml olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- A bunch of fresh dill, for an aromatic finish

Recipe History

The vegetable stew has deep roots in the culinary culture from various corners of the world. This is a versatile recipe that has been adapted and reinterpreted over time. Essentially, stews are meant to bring together simple and healthy ingredients, transforming them into a savory dish that brings the family to the table. Olives, often associated with Mediterranean cuisine, add a distinct note to this dish, enriching its flavor.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the onion into slices, grate or finely chop the carrot and parsley root. The red bell peppers should be diced, and the potatoes cut into medium-sized cubes.

2. Cooking the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 50 ml of oil and a cup of water. Place the pot over medium heat and add the onion, carrot, parsley root, and bell pepper in the following order. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Adding the potatoes: Once the vegetables have softened slightly, add the diced potatoes. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, then add 300 ml of warm water. Let the stew simmer on low heat, covered, for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender.

4. Preparing the chicken: While the vegetables are simmering, cut the chicken breast into small cubes. In a separate pan, heat a little oil and fry the chicken until it becomes golden and well-cooked. This step will add a crispy texture and a special flavor to the dish. Once done, set it aside.

5. Adding the olives: Boil the olives in a separate pot for about 5 minutes to soften them. After boiling, drain them and add them to the pot with the vegetables and potatoes, along with the fried chicken.

6. Finalizing the stew: Add the tomato paste and salt to taste. Mix the ingredients well and let the stew simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. Finally, add the finely chopped fresh dill for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving

The vegetable stew with chicken and olives is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta. You can pair it with a pickled salad for a delicious contrast or with a glass of white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

Useful Tips

- Vegetarian option: If you prefer a meat-free option, you can replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Types of olives: Green olives add a more pronounced taste, but you can also use black olives if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Preventing sticking: Make sure to stir the vegetables in the pot occasionally to prevent them from sticking and to maintain an even texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can the stew be kept?
The stew can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the oven.

- What other ingredients can I add to diversify the recipe?
You can add zucchini, mushrooms, or even chickpeas to enrich the texture and add extra protein.

- Is it a healthy recipe?
Yes, this stew is full of nutrient-rich vegetables and lean protein from the chicken, providing a balanced caloric intake and nutritional benefits.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of vegetable stew with chicken and olives has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of olives. It is an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, magnesium), with a high fiber content due to the vegetables.

This vegetable stew with chicken and olives is not just a recipe, but also a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy every bite and savor the authentic flavors!