Chicken ciulama

Chicken Ciulama with Peppers and Dill – A Comforting Delight for the Whole Family

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Discover a simple and comforting recipe, perfect for a quick family dinner: chicken ciulama with peppers and dill. This traditional dish brings a rich taste and unmistakable aroma, being a wonderful way to enjoy chicken meat in a delicious combination with fresh vegetables. Moreover, the recipe is versatile, allowing you to adapt it according to your preferences.

The history of ciulama is fascinating, as it is a beloved dish in many cultures, where meat and vegetables are cooked together in a creamy sauce, often based on yogurt or sour cream. This chicken ciulama recipe is an excellent way to bring a bit of culinary traditions into your kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 3 chicken thighs (approximately 800 g)
- 3 large onions
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- A few peppercorns
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 peppers (1 red and 1 green)
- Salt and ground pepper to taste
- 1 small yogurt (approximately 150 g)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (heaped)
- A pinch of garlic granules

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by removing the skin from the chicken thighs, washing them well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Wash and clean the onion, dill, and peppers. Cut the onion into large pieces and the peppers into cubes.

2. Chopping the ingredients: Use a food processor to chop the onion and 3/4 of the dill. This step will help release flavors that will enrich your dish. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a sharp knife to finely chop these ingredients.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pot, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and dill mixture and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.

4. Adding the peppers and spices: Add the pepper cubes, a pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. Continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.

5. Cooking the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the pot, stirring well to coat in the onion and pepper sauce. Add a cup of water, then cover the pot. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes, until the meat is tender and well cooked.

6. Preparing the creamy sauce: In a bowl, mix the yogurt with the flour. Gradually add a few tablespoons of water, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps. When the mixture is smooth, add it to the pot over the chicken and the resulting sauce. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent the dish from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Finishing the dish: Cook everything for another 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes creamy and thickens slightly. At the end, sprinkle the remaining chopped dill and a pinch of garlic granules for added flavor.

8. Serving: You can serve chicken ciulama with a side of warm polenta or boiled rice, which will absorb the delicious sauce. A fresh vegetable salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips:

- Choose quality chicken thighs: Opt for chicken thighs from a trusted supplier to ensure you get a rich and juicy flavor.

- Vegetable varieties: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to add more flavors and nutrients.

- Storing the dish: If you have leftovers, you can store the ciulama in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated on the stove or in the oven.

- Enhancements: Instead of yogurt, you can use sour cream for an even creamier sauce. Adding spices like paprika or curry can bring an interesting twist.

Calories and nutritional benefits: This chicken ciulama recipe offers a good source of protein from the meat, while the dill and vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. A serving of chicken ciulama has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It is a nourishing and comforting choice, ideal for family evenings.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can it be made without meat?: Yes, you can adapt the recipe using mushrooms or tofu instead of chicken for a delicious vegetarian option.

- Can I use low-fat yogurt?: Of course! Low-fat yogurt will make the dish lighter, but be sure to mix well to prevent separation.

- Is this recipe suitable for children?: Yes, chicken ciulama is a dish appreciated by children due to its delicate taste and creamy sauce.

Try this chicken ciulama recipe with peppers and dill, and you will discover a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings pleasant memories around the family table. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 3 chicken thighs (upper) 3 large onions 3 tablespoons of oil a few peppercorns 1 bunch of fresh dill 2 peppers (red and green) salt and ground pepper to taste 1 small yogurt 1 tablespoon of flour (heaping) a pinch of granulated garlic

 Tags:  chicken stew ciulama