Chicken ciulama

Chicken Ciulama - A classic recipe with a taste of home

When we think of culinary comfort, chicken ciulama holds a special place in the hearts of many. This recipe, with deep roots in gastronomic tradition, reminds us of family meals, moments spent together, and the flavors that delight our senses. Chicken ciulama is a savory dish characterized by a creamy and rich sauce, making each bite a true delicacy.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 700 g boneless chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 medium parsnip, peeled and chopped
- 700 ml chicken broth (preferably homemade)
- 50 g flour
- 150 ml milk
- 200 g sour cream (with a higher fat content for a creamier sauce)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 50 g butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning and cutting the vegetables. The onion, carrot, and parsnip should be prepared before you start cooking. Make sure the chicken breast is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

2. Browning the meat
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over high heat. Add the pieces of chicken breast and brown them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat develops a light golden crust. This step is essential for adding depth of flavor to the dish.

3. Adding vegetables and broth
Once the meat is browned, add the onion, carrot, and parsnip. Stir well and let the vegetables sauté with the chicken for 3-5 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth and let everything come to a boil. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

4. Preparing the sauce
In a separate bowl, dissolve the flour in cold milk. Use a whisk to mix well, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the sour cream and mix again until it becomes a homogeneous mixture.

5. Finishing the ciulama
After the chicken is cooked, remove the vegetables from the pot and keep the broth. Pour the remaining broth over the flour and sour cream mixture, stirring constantly. Place this mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until it starts to boil and thickens. Then, add the chicken pieces back into the pot and let the ciulama simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Adding final flavors
Once you turn off the heat, add the butter and chopped parsley to the chicken ciulama. Stir well to combine the flavors. The butter will add a rich and velvety note to the sauce.

7. Serving
Chicken ciulama is served warm, alongside creamy mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or even polenta. These accompaniments are perfect for complementing the dish, absorbing the delicious sauce.

Helpful tips:
- Chicken broth: If you have time, make your own chicken broth at home. This will add an authentic taste to the ciulama and make everything healthier.
- Enhancing flavor: If you enjoy garlic, feel free to add 2-3 crushed garlic cloves in the last 5-6 minutes of cooking. This will provide an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers, celery, or even mushrooms, to give a personal touch to the dish.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey ciulama is a delicious alternative. Cooking time may vary, so ensure the meat is fully cooked.

2. How can I store chicken ciulama for later consumption?
You can keep the ciulama in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or water to restore its creaminess.

3. What other recipes can be combined with ciulama?
Chicken ciulama pairs perfectly with fresh salads or steaming polenta. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can complement this dish beautifully.

Chicken ciulama is not just a meal; it is an experience that brings family and friends together at the table. By trying this recipe, you will bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen and savor every bite. Each serving is a warm embrace, a reminder of beautiful moments and the authentic taste of home. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 700 g boneless chicken breast, 1 onion, 2 medium carrots, 1 medium parsnip, butter, oil, 700 g chicken broth, 50 g flour, 150 ml milk, 150 g sour cream, salt, pepper, chopped parsley

 Tags:  chicken stew ciulama