Game Chicken

Recipe for Game Hen with Sautéed Vegetables

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

The game hen is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and taste, bringing to the table a delicious combination of tender meat and fresh vegetables. This recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a healthy choice, thanks to the natural ingredients and simple preparation method. By cooking this dish, you will not only impress your family but also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every meal.

Ingredients:
- 1 hen (about 1 kg)
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 stalk of celery (green or white)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 400 g tomatoes in sauce (canned or fresh)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- olive oil (for frying)
- 5 sprigs of fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1 glass of water

The history of the game hen recipe is linked to the culinary traditions of housewives who knew how to make the most of every ingredient from their yard or garden. This recipe has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of Sunday meals when family and friends gather to enjoy dishes cooked with love.

Before you begin, make sure you have all the ingredients prepared. This will help you focus on each step of the recipe and enjoy the cooking process.

Step 1: Preparing the hen
Wash the hen well under cold running water, then dry it with a paper towel. Cut it into suitable pieces (legs, breast, wings) for even cooking. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the pieces of hen and fry them well on all sides until they become golden and crispy. This step is essential for achieving a juicy and flavorful hen.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables
Peel the onion, carrot, and celery. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrot and celery into larger cubes. You can use a food processor to save time, but be careful not to turn them into puree. Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet over the hen and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly translucent. Here, the flavors meld together, and the vegetables release their juices.

Step 3: Adding the wet ingredients
After the vegetables have sautéed, it's time to add the tomatoes in sauce and the tomato paste. These ingredients will provide the dish with a richness of flavor and a wonderful texture. Mix everything well, then add 1 glass of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for an hour. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Step 4: Finishing the dish
After an hour, check the consistency of the sauce. If it is too liquid, you can leave the lid uncovered and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. This will bring a note of freshness and color to your dish.

Serving suggestions and variations
The game hen is served hot, alongside polenta or mashed potatoes, which will absorb the delicious sauce. You can also add a hot pepper or a teaspoon of sweet paprika for an extra kick, and for those who prefer a spicier sauce, a dash of Tabasco sauce will work wonders.

If you desire a vegetarian version, you can replace the hen with mushrooms or tofu, while keeping the other ingredients the same. This will create a dish just as tasty but healthier.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen hen?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before you start cooking.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. Each vegetable adds a different note of flavor.

3. How long can I store leftover hen?
You can keep the hen in the refrigerator in a sealed container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 400
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g

This game hen is not just a hearty meal but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will bring smiles and appreciation from everyone. Enjoy cooking!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken - 1kg 1 onion 1 carrot 1 stalk of green/white celery 2 cloves of garlic 400g tomatoes in sauce 2 tbsp tomato paste salt pepper olive oil 5 sprigs of fresh parsley 1 glass of water

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