Chicken ciulama

Chicken Ciulama - a classic and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Chicken Ciulama is a warm and tasty recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every plate. This traditional dish is appreciated for its rich and creamy sauce, which pairs perfectly with a serving of polenta or rice, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients:
- 5-6 chicken drumsticks
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 heaping tablespoon of flour
- 500 ml chicken broth (can be made from a Knorr cube or homemade chicken soup)
- 1 Knorr chicken cube (optional, for extra flavor)
- White pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the drumsticks: Start by cleaning the chicken drumsticks. It’s a good idea to briefly singe them to remove any small feathers, then wash them well under cold water. After cleaning, dry them with a paper towel.

2. Frying the drumsticks: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the drumsticks and fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and appetizing. Remove them to a plate and set aside.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes transparent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

4. Preparing the sauce: After the onion and garlic are sautéed, add the chicken broth (500 ml). If you prefer, you can use homemade chicken soup, which will add an even more intense flavor. Place the drumsticks back into the skillet and let them simmer on low heat for 25 minutes, covering the skillet with a lid.

5. Thickening the sauce: In a small bowl, combine a heaping tablespoon of flour with a little water to form a smooth paste. This will help thicken the sauce. After 25 minutes of simmering, add the flour mixture to the skillet, along with white pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finalizing the dish: When the ciulama is ready, remove the skillet from the heat and add the finely chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

7. Serving: Serve the chicken ciulama warm, alongside polenta or rice, to make the most of the delicious sauce. A seasonal salad would also be an excellent choice to complement the meal.

Practical tip: If you want an even richer sauce, you can add a cup of cooking cream in the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will add extra creaminess and enhance the flavors.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken ciulama is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken meat, and contains essential nutrients from the vegetables. Olive oil, rich in healthy fats, contributes to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace chicken with turkey or even beef, but the cooking time will change.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier? You can add a little cayenne pepper or chopped hot pepper.
3. What side dishes go best? Polenta is traditional, but mashed potatoes or rice are also excellent options.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to add a unique touch to your ciulama.

I hope you will try this chicken ciulama recipe and that it will become one of your favorites! Enjoy your meal!