Gizzard and heart stew

Chicken Gizzard and Heart Stew: A Savory Delight from Home Cooking

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

I present to you a recipe that combines tradition with flavor: chicken gizzard and heart stew. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, as chicken organs are a rich source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. So, get your kitchen ready and let’s start cooking!

A bit of history

Stews, in general, have a long history, being a simple and effective way to cook meat with vegetables. Whether we talk about beef, pork, or chicken, stews have always been appreciated for their versatility. Today, we focus on chicken gizzards and hearts, which, as you will discover, transform a modest ingredient into a feast.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg chicken gizzards and hearts
- 4 large onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 250 ml tomato juice
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)

Step by step to a delicious stew

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the gizzards and hearts thoroughly under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. This step is essential to remove impurities and achieve a clean broth. Pay attention to the foam that forms on the surface of the water and remove it with a skimmer.

2. Chopping the vegetables
While the gizzards are boiling, peel the onions and slice them thinly. Choose good quality onions, as they will contribute to the final aroma of the stew. Clean the peppers and cut them into small cubes. The peppers add a touch of sweetness and a crunchy texture to the dish.

3. Boiling the gizzards
After about 15-20 minutes, when the gizzards are half-cooked, remove them from the water and let them drain. Do not discard the broth, as you will use it later!

4. Sautéing the vegetables
Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the sliced onions and sauté over medium heat until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This process will intensify the onion's flavor, bringing a special taste to the stew.

5. Adding the gizzards and spices
Add the boiled gizzards and mix well to combine them with the onions. After a few minutes, add the peppers. Continue to sauté everything for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Here you can add the bay leaf, paprika, and pepper for a richer taste.

6. Baking
Pour the previously obtained broth into the pot, along with the tomato juice, so that it covers the gizzards. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let the stew cook for 20 minutes, until the sauce reduces and becomes thicker.

7. Finishing the dish
At the end, taste the stew and add salt to your liking. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving and pairing suggestions

The chicken gizzard and heart stew pairs perfectly with warm polenta or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Additionally, a simple green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers can complement the meal, providing a fresh contrast.

Nutritional benefits

This stew is an excellent source of protein and vitamins. Chicken gizzards and hearts contain iron, which helps transport oxygen in the body, and B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. Moreover, it's a relatively low-calorie recipe, with about 350 calories per serving, making it a healthy choice for a hearty meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace gizzards and hearts with another type of meat?
Of course! You can use chicken meat or other organs, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add hot peppers or chili sauce during cooking for an extra kick.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! The stew keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated, with the flavor becoming even better after a day.

4. What drinks pair well with this stew?
A dry white wine or a light beer can perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

Variations of the recipe

If you want to add a bit of variety, you can try adding extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini, depending on your preferences. You can also experiment with spices, adding cumin or oregano to change its flavor.

In conclusion, chicken gizzard and heart stew is a simple yet special recipe that will surely bring joy to your table. Take the opportunity to explore and enjoy preparing this comforting dish! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg chicken gizzards and hearts, 4 onions, 1 red bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, 250 ml tomato juice, 1 bay leaf, paprika, salt, pepper, parsley, 50 ml oil

 Tags:  gizzard and heart stew gatesc for a book stew chicken organs