Chicken bites

Chicken aspic: a traditional recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia. This dish is a true delight, ideal for festive meals or as a comforting snack on winter days. Aspic is a perfect choice when you want to impress your guests with a dish that not only looks good but also tastes exquisite. Let us guide you step by step in this culinary adventure.

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Cooking time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients
- 2 kg chicken back
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 celery
- 1 head of garlic
- 40 g gelatin
- Whole pepper
- Salt

Brief history
Aspics are a staple dish in many cultures, often associated with festive meals or family gatherings. This dish is a perfect combination of tender meat and gelatin, which forms from the slow boiling of meat with vegetables. Their origins run deep in culinary tradition, being appreciated for their versatility and comforting taste.

Preparing chicken aspic

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the chicken meat well under cold running water. This will help remove impurities and ensure a cleaner taste for the aspic. Place the meat in a large pot, adding enough vegetables to enhance the flavor.

2. Adding vegetables and water:
Cut the onion in half, the carrot and parsnip into large pieces, and slice the celery. Add the vegetables to the pot, covering everything with cold water so that it is 2-3 fingers above the ingredients. This will help extract flavors from the meat and vegetables during boiling.

3. Boiling:
Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to boil. Once the water starts to boil, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This step is essential for achieving a clear broth. Add salt and whole pepper to taste and reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the meat easily separates from the bone.

4. Preparing the garlic:
Meanwhile, peel the head of garlic and crush the cloves in a mortar or with a crushing tool. The garlic will add an intense aroma and a distinctive taste to the aspic.

5. Separating the meat and vegetables:
After the meat is cooked, turn off the heat and carefully remove the meat from the pot, reserving the broth for later. Place the meat in a bowl and let it cool slightly. Do the same with the vegetables.

6. Preparing the gelatin:
In a small bowl, take a ladle of the remaining broth (about 2 cups) and let it cool. Add the gelatin according to the instructions on the package and mix well until completely dissolved. Once the gelatin is dissolved, add it to the remaining broth in the pot, mixing well.

7. Assembling the aspic:
Start portioning the meat into deep plates or bowls. Then, strain the broth through a fine sieve to remove the peppercorns and vegetable remnants. Check the taste of the broth and add salt if needed.

8. Adding the carrot:
Cut the cooked carrot into small cubes and add it to each plate over the portioned meat. This detail will not only add color but also a pleasant texture.

9. Finalizing the dish:
Fill each plate with broth, ensuring that the meat is well covered. Allow the aspic to cool at room temperature, then move it to the fridge to set. It is ideal to leave it overnight to achieve the perfect consistency.

10. Serving:
When you are ready to serve the aspic, use a knife to detach the edges from the plate. Carefully invert each portion onto a flat plate. You can garnish with slices of cucumber and pickled peppers for a delicious contrast and an attractive presentation.

Useful tips
- Vegetarian version: You can replace the chicken with boiled vegetables, such as mushrooms or peas, for a vegetarian option. Plant-based gelatin can be used instead of animal gelatin.
- Tricks for an intense flavor: Add spices like bay leaves or allspice during boiling for an even more complex taste.
- This dish can be served with: a salad of sour cabbage or fresh bread for a special lunch.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of chicken aspic has about 250 calories, being an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, thanks to the chicken and vegetables. Garlic contains antioxidants, and gelatin is beneficial for joints and skin.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of meat? Of course! You can experiment with pork or beef to achieve various flavors.
- How can I keep the aspic longer? Aspic keeps well in the fridge and can be consumed for up to 5 days.

This chicken aspic recipe is not just a simple dish but a delicious story that will connect you with your family's culinary traditions. I invite you to try it and share these moments of joy with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!