Chicken ciulama

Chicken Ciulama Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Chicken ciulama is a traditional dish that evokes warm and comforting memories, making it a perfect choice for a family meal. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines succulent pieces of chicken with a creamy and aromatic sauce, bringing together the natural flavors of the ingredients. Ideal for cool days, chicken ciulama is best served alongside a portion of warm polenta, which will absorb every drop of the delicious sauce.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g chicken thighs and wings (choose quality chicken, preferably organic)
- 2 medium carrots (opt for younger, sweeter carrots)
- 1 small celery (adds a subtle yet essential flavor)
- 4-5 garlic cloves (adjust to personal preference)
- 50 g butter (for a rich taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour (wheat flour is ideal)
- Salt (to taste)
- Water (or chicken broth, to enhance the flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Boiling the chicken

Start by placing the chicken thighs and wings in a large pot. Add the peeled and sliced carrots, along with the diced celery. Cover the ingredients with water (or chicken broth, if preferred) and add a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the meat becomes tender.

Helpful tip: To check if the chicken is cooked, poke it with a fork. If the juice that comes out is clear, then it’s done.

Step 2: Preparing the ciulama sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. In the same pot, keep the cooking liquid (about 500 ml) to prepare the sauce.

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté it lightly, being careful not to burn it, as it becomes bitter. Here lies the secret of a delicious ciulama sauce: use the garlic wisely to add a deep flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Step 3: Thickening the sauce

In a bowl, mix the flour with a bit of the chicken broth (about 200 ml), stirring well to avoid lumps. Pour the flour mixture into the saucepan with butter and garlic, stirring continuously. Gradually add the remaining chicken broth, adjusting the sauce's consistency to your preference. If you want a thicker sauce, add a bit more flour, and if you prefer a thinner sauce, add more broth.

Step 4: Finishing the ciulama

When the sauce starts to boil, add the cooked chicken, cut into suitable pieces. Let everything simmer together for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt if necessary.

Serving

Chicken ciulama is served hot, alongside freshly made polenta. The polenta perfectly absorbs the rich and creamy sauce, turning every bite into a comforting experience.

Serving suggestion: You can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for additional flavor and an interesting texture. You can also replace the chicken with turkey or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains healthy vegetables, providing a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and benefits in supporting the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but make sure to adjust the cooking time, as it will cook faster.

2. What other sides go well with chicken ciulama?
Besides polenta, a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes can complement this dish excellently.

3. How can I store chicken ciulama?
Chicken ciulama can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it over low heat, adding a little water or chicken broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Chicken ciulama is more than just a dish; it’s a recipe that brings family and friends together, creating unforgettable moments around the table. Combining simplicity with rich flavor, this ciulama will surely become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to add your own variations and share this recipe with your loved ones!