Chicken Ostropel

Chicken Ostropel with White Wine and Vegetables – a flavorful family recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a dish that brings the aroma of comfort home? Chicken Ostropel is exactly that: a hearty meal, full of flavor and with a rich history in our cuisine. The origins of this dish are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, often prepared on holidays or family gatherings. It is a dish that combines succulent meat, aromatic vegetables, and a delicious sauce, perfect for serving with a portion of warm polenta.

Ingredients

- 8 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 glass of white wine (I recommend Chardonnay for a hint of sweetness)
- 2 yellow onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 cup of tomato juice (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
- 6-7 cloves of garlic
- Dried thyme
- Dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 cup of water
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour

Preparing the Ingredients

The first step in making this delicious Ostropel is preparing the ingredients. Make sure the chicken thighs are boneless and well washed. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on, but for a healthier option, I recommend removing it. Cut the thighs into 4 lengthwise to allow for even cooking.

The next step is to prepare the vegetables. Chop the onions and bell pepper into small cubes. Crush the garlic to release its aroma. These vegetables will contribute to a rich and savory sauce.

Step by Step – Cooking the Ostropel

1. Start with the meat: In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sauté for 6-7 minutes until they change color and become golden. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

2. Add the wine: Once the meat is browned, pour in the white wine. Let it boil and evaporate the alcohol, adding a hint of flavor to the dish. This step is essential as the wine will help enrich the sauce.

3. The vegetables come next: Once the wine starts to boil, remove the thighs to a plate and add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelized.

4. The delicious sauce: After the vegetables have softened, add the crushed garlic, tomato juice, thyme, basil, and bay leaf. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Return the chicken: Put the chicken thighs back into the pot and add the water. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the meat is tender and well-cooked.

6. Flour for thickening: Finally, gradually add the flour while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently, to achieve a creamy and rich sauce.

7. Finishing touches: Once the sauce is homogenized, taste and adjust the seasonings. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving

Chicken Ostropel is served hot, alongside a generous portion of polenta. This combination will instantly transport you to pleasant family memories and lavish meals. You can add a fresh green salad or pickles for a refreshing contrast.

Practical Tips

- Wine: Choose a quality wine, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.
- Vegetables: You can vary the vegetables according to your preferences; carrots or zucchini are excellent options.
- Flour: Make sure to add the flour gradually and stir continuously to avoid lumps.
- Thickening the sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can add more flour, but be careful not to overdo it to avoid changing the texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken Ostropel is a good source of protein from white meat and vitamins from vegetables. The parsley added at the end provides antioxidants and essential vitamins, and the use of white wine can add an extra boost of antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, Ostropel can also be made with pork or beef, but the cooking time will differ.

2. What kind of wine is best?
A dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, is ideal for adding a hint of complexity to the sauce.

3. Can I prepare the Ostropel in advance?
Yes, Ostropel can be made a day ahead, and the flavor improves as it cools.

4. What other recipes pair well with Ostropel?
Chicken Ostropel pairs excellently with a summer salad or polenta, but also with mashed potatoes or rice.

Personal Note

Chicken Ostropel is more than just a meal; it is a true family story that brings people together. Every meal is an occasion to create memories, and this dish will bring smiles to your faces. So, don’t hesitate to invite your friends and family to the table to enjoy this delight together!

Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 8 boneless chicken thighs a glass of white wine (I used Chardonnay) 2 yellow onions 1 bell pepper a cup of tomato juice (I made it at home so I recommend a can of tomatoes in juice and the tomatoes should be finely chopped) 6-7 cloves of garlic thyme, basil, a bay leaf salt, pepper 2-3 tablespoons of oil a bunch of parsley a cup of water 2-3 tablespoons of flour

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