Gizzard and heart stew
Gizzard and Heart Stew - A Comforting Delight
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
It is said that simple meals made with love are the ones that bring the most beautiful memories. Gizzard and heart stew is a traditional recipe that combines authentic taste with accessible ingredients, transforming into a comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner. This meal is not only filling but also offers an explosion of flavors, making it ideal for cool evenings.
Ingredients needed:
- 500 g chicken gizzards and hearts (make sure to wash them well)
- 2 large onions (preferably white for a sweeter taste)
- 1 green bell pepper (for an extra splash of color and flavor)
- 1 carrot (adds sweetness and texture)
- 150 ml tomato paste (you can use homemade for a more intense flavor)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (for the unmistakable aroma)
- Salt, pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika (optional, but recommended for color and flavor)
- Dried thyme (or fresh if you have it on hand)
Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the gizzards and hearts under cold running water. Let them soak in water for 30 minutes to remove any impurities. Meanwhile, peel and chop the onions into small cubes, and slice the carrot and green bell pepper into rounds or cubes, as preferred. Mince the garlic.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pan or pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the carrot and bell pepper, stirring constantly to prevent sticking, for another 3-4 minutes.
3. Adding the gizzards and hearts: Add the gizzards and hearts to the pan, mixing well to incorporate them with the vegetables. Add a tablespoon of paprika and the minced garlic, continuing to stir. This will give the dish a rich flavor.
4. Boiling: Add enough water to cover the ingredients (about 500 ml). Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for one hour. It is important to stir occasionally and check if more water is needed.
5. Finalizing the dish: When the gizzards and hearts are nearly cooked, add the tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The rich taste of the stew is now complemented by the aroma of thyme.
6. Serving: This stew is delicious served alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or warm polenta. You can also opt for a sautéed carrot for a fresh note. A slice of homemade bread would be perfect to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Practical tips:
- Choosing the meat: When buying gizzards and hearts, opt for fresh meat with a firm texture. Avoid meat that has an uneven color or an unpleasant smell.
- Variations: You can add diced potatoes during boiling to make the dish even heartier. You can also replace thyme with other herbs like rosemary or oregano to experiment with new flavors.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, the stew keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it by adding a little water to restore its juiciness.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? - Yes, you can use chicken or turkey cut into cubes, but the cooking time will be different.
2. How can I make the recipe spicier? - Add chili flakes or freshly chopped chili to the vegetable mix.
3. Is this dish healthy? - Gizzard and heart stew is rich in protein and nutrients, with a relatively low calorie content, making it a good option for a healthy meal.
Nutrition:
This gizzard and heart stew has approximately 350 calories per serving, being an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially B12), and minerals (iron and zinc). It is ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
So, don't hesitate to try this simple and delicious gizzard and heart stew recipe. It will surely become a favorite dish among your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500 g chicken gizzards and hearts, 2 onions, 1 green bell pepper, 1 carrot, 150 ml broth, 4-5 garlic cloves, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme
