Celery stew with chicken

Delicious chicken stew with celery and colorful vegetables

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Are you looking for a stew recipe that combines sweet and hearty flavors, bringing comfort in every bite? This chicken stew with celery and vegetables is the perfect choice! Full of flavor and with a delightful consistency, this dish will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Short history
Stews have been prepared over time in multiple variations across different cultures. They are an excellent way to combine meat with vegetables, slowly cooked to allow the flavors to develop and blend. Their origins are lost in history, but they have evolved as a way to use available ingredients, turning them into nourishing and comforting dishes.

Magic ingredients
To prepare this chicken stew, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (or half a chicken breast, according to preference)
- 1 celery root (about 600 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably frozen, but fresh is even better)
- 1 tablespoon of pepper paste
- Oregano (to taste)
- Sweet paprika (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 50 ml of oil (preferably olive oil for a finer taste)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Useful tips about ingredients
- If you don’t have celery on hand, you can also use other root vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips, to add sweetness.
- Chicken can be replaced with turkey or even a vegetarian option using mushrooms or tofu.
- Using frozen vegetables is an excellent option, especially when you want to save time. They are frozen at peak freshness and retain their nutrients.

Step-by-step cooking technique
1. Preparing the meat: Wash and portion the chicken, ensuring the cuts are uniform for even cooking. If using chicken breast, cut it into cubes.
2. Browning the meat: In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and lightly brown it on all sides for about 5 minutes. This step will add a delicious flavor to the dish.
3. The vegetables: Remove the meat from the pot and, in the same pan, add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper. Continue sautéing for 2-3 minutes.
4. Celery: Peel and cut the celery into suitable cubes. Add it to the pot and mix well. Let the vegetables soften for about 5 minutes.
5. Returning the meat: Put the chicken back in the pot and add enough water or broth to cover the vegetables. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes.
6. Seasoning: Near the end of the cooking time, add the pepper paste, oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. These spices will add a deep flavor and irresistible aroma to the stew.
7. Thickening: Dilute the flour with a little water and add the mixture to the stew. Stir well to avoid lumps. Let it boil a few times to thicken the sauce.
8. Final touches: At the end, add the chopped parsley, which will bring a touch of freshness to the dish.

Serving and suggestions
This savory stew can be served with warm polenta, rice, or even a slice of fresh bread. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little chopped parsley for a nice appearance and added aroma. It also pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a craft beer, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Nutritional benefits
This stew is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables add essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Celery, in particular, is known for its diuretic properties and low calorie content, making it ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use pork instead of chicken?
Yes, pork works perfectly with this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.
- What is the best type of oil for this stew?
Olive oil is an excellent choice, but you can also use sunflower or canola oil, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the stew spicier?
If you want a spicier taste, add a little hot paprika or chili flakes, according to your preferences.

Now that you have the complete recipe, all that’s left is to get cooking! We wish you a hearty appetite and joyful moments with your loved ones! This chicken stew with celery will surely become a family favorite!

 Ingredients: chicken (I used 2 thighs and 1/2 breast) a root of celery (about 600 g) 2 onions 1 carrot bell pepper (I used frozen) 1 tablespoon of pepper paste oregano sweet paprika salt pepper 50 ml oil 1 tablespoon flour fresh parsley

 Tags:  celery stew with chicken