Old hen stew from the countryside
Old Hen Stew from the Countryside
Stew is undoubtedly a recipe that evokes warm memories, filled with flavors and traditions. This dish has been cooked for generations, symbolizing love and care for family. Although it may seem simple, the secret to a successful stew lies in patience and attention to detail. Today, I will share my recipe for old hen stew, a rustic yet incredibly tasty version, perfect for family meals.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 old hen thighs
- 1 old hen breast
- 3 large onions, sliced
- 5-6 cloves of garlic, sliced
- 1 tablespoon of bell pepper paste
- 4 tablespoons of tomato juice
- Fresh basil, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water (about 1 liter)
Necessary utensils
- Large pot for boiling
- Medium pot for sauce
- Slotted spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the meat
Start by washing the thighs and breast of the hen thoroughly. Blanching the meat is an important step that helps remove impurities. Place the meat in a pot of boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then remove it and let it cool slightly. Wash the meat again with warm water to remove any residues.
2. Boiling the meat
Place the meat in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and enough water to completely cover the meat. Boil over medium heat for 60-90 minutes, or until the meat easily separates from the bones. This is when the old hen becomes tender and delicious.
3. Preparing the sauce
Once the meat is boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Save a cup of the water in which the hen was boiled, as it will be the base for your sauce. Debone the meat and remove the skin, then cut the meat into suitable pieces.
4. Sauté the vegetables
In a medium pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of the hen boiling water and heat it. Add the sliced onion and garlic. Sauté over low heat for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and starts to soften.
5. Add the meat
Once the vegetables are ready, add the boiled meat to the pot. Mix well and let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Preparing the final sauce
Pour the remaining hen water over the meat and vegetables, then add the bell pepper paste and tomato juice. Let it simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not let the sauce boil too much, as the meat will break apart. Cook until the sauce reduces slightly but remains creamy.
7. Seasoning
Before removing the stew from the heat, taste and season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil, to your liking. The basil adds a fresh aroma and a perfect contrast to the rich sauce.
8. Serving
The stew is served hot, alongside a generous portion of warm polenta. The polenta will absorb the delicious sauce, turning each bite into an unforgettable experience.
Helpful Suggestions and Tips
- Old Hen: If the hen is older, it will require a longer boiling time. This not only helps tenderize the meat but also extracts deep flavors from the bones.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to add a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
- Recommended Drinks: The stew pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or freshly made lemonade, adding a pleasant contrast to summer meals.
- Storage: You can keep the stew in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The flavor will intensify as it cools, making it even better the next day.
Nutritional Benefits
This stew recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. The hen is an excellent source of protein, while the onion and garlic are rich in antioxidants, benefiting the immune system. Polenta, as a side dish, provides complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can substitute the hen with chicken or turkey, but the cooking time will vary.
2. How can I enrich the sauce?
By adding a few green or black olives, you can enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce.
3. Is this stew suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! With a good wine and a fresh salad, the stew becomes a perfect dish for festive meals.
Personal Note
My favorite stew is the one I cook with love, reminding me of the days spent at my grandmother's, where each ingredient was carefully chosen, and every recipe had a story. I hope this recipe brings you joy and becomes part of your culinary traditions!
Enjoy cooking and savoring!
Ingredients: 2 old hen thighs, 1 old hen breast, 1 tablespoon of roasted pepper paste, 4 tablespoons of tomato juice, 3 large onions, 5-6 cloves of garlic, a little basil, salt and pepper to taste
