Homemade chicken stew

Homemade Chicken Ciulama

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Welcome to a kitchen filled with aromas and flavors! Today, I invite you to prepare a traditional recipe, full of nostalgia and comfort: homemade chicken ciulama. This dish is perfect for chilly days or moments when you want to indulge in a meal that brings pleasant memories. Chicken ciulama is a dish that has been cooked for generations, with a rich history and appreciated in many homes due to its creamy and comforting taste.

Ingredients:

- 2 chickens (approximately 1.5 kg each)
- 2 medium white onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 large carrot
- 4-5 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 2 tablespoons of white flour
- 250 ml of milk
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
- Polenta (for serving)
- Garlic sauce (optional for serving)
- Seasonal pickles (optional for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cleaning the chickens. If you already have them cleaned, you can skip this step. Cut the chickens into portions (breasts, thighs, wings) and set them aside. This step is important as homemade chicken has a unique texture and flavor, different from store-bought chickens.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Clean the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Finely chop the onion, dice the bell pepper into small cubes, and grate the carrot using a large grater. These vegetables will add extra flavor to your ciulama.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the bell pepper and carrot. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. It is recommended not to let them burn, so make sure to stir constantly.

4. Cooking the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot, mixing well to combine with the vegetables. Let them sauté for about 5 minutes until they are lightly browned. Add enough water to cover the meat and let it simmer over low heat. Cover the pot and let the chicken cook for 30-40 minutes until tender.

5. Preparing the thickening: In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the milk, whisking to avoid lumps. After the chicken has boiled, pour this mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Continue to cook over low heat until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. This is when the ciulama becomes truly wonderful!

6. Seasoning: Add vegeta and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasonings according to your preferences. Mix well to ensure the flavors blend perfectly.

7. Finalizing the dish: Finally, add the chopped parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Stir again and let it simmer for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

8. Serving: Homemade chicken ciulama is served hot, alongside a generous portion of polenta. If desired, you can add garlic sauce for an intense flavor. Seasonal pickles make an excellent accompaniment, bringing a tangy note that perfectly contrasts with the creaminess of the ciulama.

Practical tips:

- Types of meat: If you prefer, you can replace the chicken with turkey or even pork, but the cooking time may vary.
- Flour: Using white flour is standard, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Milk: You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a lactose-free option, but the taste will be different.
- Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian ciulama, replace the meat with mushrooms, which will add a rich flavor.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Is homemade chicken tastier than store-bought?
Yes, homemade chicken has a more tender meat and a more intense flavor due to the natural food it consumes.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Although fresh vegetables are ideal, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure they are of good quality.

3. Can I prepare chicken ciulama in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when serving. The taste will improve as the flavors combine.

4. What can I serve with ciulama?
It is perfect with polenta, but it can also go well with rice or fresh bread.

5. What drinks pair well?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent options to accompany this dish.

Enjoy every step of preparing this homemade chicken ciulama and don't hesitate to share the result with your loved ones! This recipe is more than just a dish; it is an invitation to the family table, to stories, and to unforgettable moments. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 2 domestic chickens, 2 white onions, 1 red bell pepper, 1 carrot, oil, 2 tablespoons of white flour, milk, parsley leaves, vegeta, pepper

 Tags:  chicken stew