Summer stew

Summer Stew - a recipe that combines the flavors and colors of the warm season. This savory stew is a perfect choice to enjoy fresh vegetables and tender chicken meat, all in a dish that brings together tradition and authentic taste. Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, this recipe will bring a smile to your face and delight the taste buds of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1.8 kg chicken thighs
- 2 kg onions (white or yellow, depending on preference)
- 2 kg bell peppers (choose a mix of colors for a vibrant look)
- 2 kg tomatoes (ripe tomatoes for a more intense flavor)
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 teaspoons of "taste secret" seasoning (a spice mix that adds extra flavor)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
- Salt, to taste

Step by step in preparing the summer stew:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the onion and bell pepper. Cut the onion into slices and the pepper into thin strips. If you haven't cooked with bell peppers before, choose those with a firm texture and vibrant color. Blanch the tomatoes to make them easier to peel; to blanch them, place them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water.

Step 2: Preparing the meat
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and lightly fry them on all sides until golden brown. This will add a crispy texture and delicious flavor. Don't rush this step, as good frying is the secret to a tasty stew.

Step 3: Cooking the vegetables
Once the thighs are ready, add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Mix well and let them sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the sliced tomatoes, bay leaves, "taste secret" seasoning, and pepper. This seasoning is an excellent choice to add depth to the flavor, so don't skip it!

Step 4: Baking
Transfer the mixture to a pot that will go in the oven. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let everything simmer slowly for about 40-50 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will soften, and the flavors will combine beautifully.

Step 5: Finishing
After the time has passed, take the pot out of the oven and add the finely chopped parsley, if you have it on hand. This will add a fresh note and a color contrast. Gently mix and let the stew cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestions
The summer stew is delicious served alongside warm polenta, which will absorb all the flavorful juices. Additionally, a slice of fresh rustic bread is perfect to complete the meal. If you want a refreshing note, Greek yogurt or a simple green salad can add a pleasant contrast.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant. Also, if you prefer a spicier version, you can add hot peppers or spices like smoked paprika. Replacing chicken thighs with turkey or beef can provide a different dimension to the dish.

Nutritional benefits
This stew is a rich source of protein due to the chicken and contains essential vitamins from the vegetables. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while onions and bell peppers provide a significant amount of vitamins C and A. It is an excellent choice for a balanced and healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace chicken thighs with turkey or beef, but cooking time may vary.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add hot peppers or spicy seasonings during cooking.

3. What type of oil should I use?
Olive oil is ideal for a richer taste, but you can also use vegetable oil.

4. Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Absolutely! The dish can be cooked a day ahead and will have an even more intense flavor the next day.

Personal note
This summer stew is a memory of summers spent with family, where the aromas in the kitchen intertwined with laughter and stories. By cooking this recipe, you will not only delight your taste buds, but also bring a touch of nostalgia to each serving. So gather your family and friends around the table to savor this traditional delicacy!

So, get ready to enjoy a comforting meal, full of summer flavors and colors. With every spoonful, you will feel the warmth and goodness of this stew, which will make you come back to it again and again. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1,800kg of chicken thighs - 2kg of onion - 2kg of bell pepper - 2kg of tomatoes - 3 bay leaves - 3 teaspoons of the secret ingredient - pepper - parsley (I didn't add it because it was night and I couldn't see to pick any more)