Chicken paprikash with dumplings

Chicken paprikash with dumplings - a traditional recipe full of flavor and comfort. This delicious dish will not only delight you with its aroma but will also bring a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant childhood memories when family meals were a festive occasion. Chicken paprikash is a versatile recipe, easily adaptable, that can quickly become your favorite, especially when served alongside fluffy dumplings.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the paprikash:
- 1 kg chicken thighs (you can also use breast, but thighs are juicier)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 200 g sour cream (choose full-fat sour cream for a creamier sauce)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (smoked paprika can add an interesting flavor)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

For the dumplings:
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon water
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by browning the chicken thighs in a deep skillet or multicooker. Add a few tablespoons of oil and wait for it to heat up. The right heat is essential for achieving a beautiful crust. Brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, until golden.

2. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle the sweet paprika over the meat and vegetable mixture, stirring well to release the flavors. This step is crucial, as the paprika will give color and a distinct taste to the dish. Then, add water, season with salt and pepper, and add the bay leaves. Let it simmer on low heat, covered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Preparing the dumplings: While the paprikash is simmering, you can prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, beat the egg, add the salt, oil, and water. Then, gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until you obtain a batter with the consistency of thick sour cream that flows off the spoon. It’s important that it’s not too thick, so the dumplings will be fluffy.

5. Cooking the dumplings: When the meat is almost cooked, use a spoon to form small mounds of batter. Meanwhile, dip the spoon into the hot broth to prevent sticking. Add the dumplings to the paprikash, letting them simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, until they double in size and become fluffy.

6. Finishing the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with a tablespoon of flour and a few tablespoons of the paprikash broth. This step will help thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture. Pour the mixture into the paprikash and let it boil for another 2-3 minutes. Now, your paprikash should have the perfect consistency, and the aroma should be irresistible.

7. Serving: Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. Chicken paprikash with dumplings is best served alongside warm polenta, which perfectly complements this dish.

Serving suggestions: You can serve the paprikash with a fresh seasonal salad to add a contrast of textures and enhance the meal. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold beer will perfectly complete this culinary experience.

Tips and variations:
If you want to experiment, you can replace the chicken with pork or turkey. Also, add mushrooms for an extra umami boost or even a spicy pepper if you like your food hot. Paprikash can also be just as well prepared in a multicooker, where the stewing function will help retain the juices and flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken paprikash is an excellent source of protein, providing essential nutrients to the body. The dumplings, although rich in carbohydrates, contribute to a feeling of fullness. The sour cream adds a calcium boost, and the vegetables are a source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a healthy and delicious alternative.

2. What can I do if I don’t have sweet paprika?
You can use smoked paprika for a different flavor, but adjust the amount as it is more intense.

3. How can I make the dumplings fluffier?
Make sure not to overmix the batter and to cook them on low heat without stirring too much in the water.

In conclusion, chicken paprikash with dumplings is a dish that combines tradition with comfort, offering a delicious and comforting meal. Don’t hesitate to add a bit of your magic in the kitchen and share this recipe with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 1 kg chicken thighs, 1 onion, 1 red bell pepper, 200 g sour cream, 1 tablespoon flour, 2 tablespoons sweet paprika, 2-3 bay leaves, salt, pepper, 1 bunch of fresh parsley - for the dumplings: 1 egg, 3 tablespoons flour, 1 tablespoon oil, 1 tablespoon water, a pinch of salt

 Tags:  paprika recipe dumpling recipe philips multicooker recipes