Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson

Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson Recipe - A Delicious Mexican Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine with the simplicity of home cooking. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a comforting and nutritious meal that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. With its combination of tender chicken, aromatic broth, and a medley of vegetables and spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

History

The origins of the Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson are steeped in folklore and history. It is said to have been a favorite dish of the legendary frontiersman Kit Carson's wife, who skillfully combined the available ingredients to create a nourishing meal for her family. Over time, the recipe has been passed down through generations, evolving into the beloved dish we know today. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its delicious taste and the rich cultural heritage it represents.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 qt (946 ml) chicken broth
1 pinch dried Mexican leaf oregano
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup cooked garbanzo beans, preferably dried
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped
1 chipotle chile, packed in adobo, minced
1 (4 – 6 oz (170 g)) havarti cheese, cubed
4 sprigs cilantro, optional

How to prepare

Place the chicken breasts in a pot along with the broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn off the heat, cover, and let it poach gently for 12 minutes.
Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and cut them into 1.5-inch long strips.
Return the chicken strips to the broth and add the oregano, rice, garbanzo beans, avocado, and chipotle.
Divide the cheese evenly among 4 deep soup bowls.
Reheat the soup quickly until it reaches a boil, then ladle it into the bowls.
Garnish each bowl with a sprig of cilantro.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or additional beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add more heat, include diced jalapeños or increase the amount of adobo. For a lower-fat option, omit the cheese or use a reduced-fat variety.

Notes

This dish may be made a day ahead, but don't add the avocado until reheating the soup for serving. The chipotle flavor will intensify overnight and the dish may seem hotter. For more intense flavor, add some of the adobo from the peppers.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Poaching the chicken in broth not only cooks it gently but also infuses it with flavor. For an even richer broth, consider using homemade chicken broth. When adding the avocado, make sure it is ripe but still firm to avoid it becoming mushy in the soup. Lastly, adding the cheese cubes just before serving ensures they retain their shape and texture, providing a delightful contrast to the warm broth.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, with each bowl garnished with a sprig of cilantro for a fresh, aromatic finish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of warm tortillas or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Cooking Techniques

Poaching the chicken gently in broth is a key technique in this recipe, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Simmering the soup after adding all the ingredients allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Be careful not to overcook the soup once the avocado is added to preserve its texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If garbanzo beans are not available, kidney beans or black beans can be used as substitutes. Brown rice or quinoa can replace white rice for added fiber and nutrients. For those who cannot consume dairy, a dairy-free cheese alternative can be used.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken can be poached and shredded ahead of time, and the broth can be prepared in advance. Store these components in the refrigerator and assemble the soup just before serving to ensure freshness and save time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in deep, colorful bowls to highlight its vibrant ingredients. A garnish of fresh cilantro, a wedge of lime on the side, and a sprinkle of diced avocado on top can add visual appeal and enhance the flavors.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp salad with a citrus dressing makes an excellent starter for this meal. For beverages, consider a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing limeade to complement the rich flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until hot, being careful not to boil vigorously to preserve the texture of the avocado and cheese.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this dish contains approximately 500 calories, making it a satisfying meal that can fit into a balanced diet. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates provides sustained energy without being overly calorie-dense.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a balanced amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the rice and garbanzo beans. One serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. These complex carbohydrates are an excellent source of energy and dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the avocado and cheese, contributing to the dish's creamy texture and rich flavor. A single serving contains about 20 grams of fat, with a healthy mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from the avocado. These fats are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Proteins

With 2 pounds of chicken breast as its main ingredient, this dish is a high-protein meal, offering about 35 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making this dish an excellent choice for muscle recovery and maintenance.

Vitamins and minerals

The Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to its diverse ingredients. Avocado is a great source of Vitamin K, folate, and potassium, while garbanzo beans add iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. The chicken and cheese contribute calcium and phosphorus, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including dairy (cheese) and may not be suitable for individuals with a sensitivity to these ingredients. However, it is free from common allergens such as nuts, gluten, and shellfish, making it accessible to many.

Summary

Overall, the Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a wholesome choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and hearty dish that supports a healthy lifestyle.

Summary

The Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson is a delightful dish that combines nutritious ingredients, rich flavors, and a touch of history. Whether you're looking to explore traditional recipes or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe offers something for everyone. With its balanced nutrition profile and versatile serving options, it's sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a cold winter day in the small town of Taos, New Mexico, where I had been visiting my dear friend Maria. Maria was a wonderful cook and had learned many traditional recipes from her grandmother, who had been a cook for Kit Carson himself.

As we sat by the fire sipping hot tea, Maria pulled out an old, weathered cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations. She flipped through the pages until she came to a recipe titled "Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson." Maria explained that this was a dish that her grandmother had learned to make from Kit Carson's wife, Josefa.

I was intrigued by the name and eager to learn more about this mysterious recipe. Maria began to tell me the story of how Josefa Carson had come to Taos in the mid-1800s and had quickly become a beloved member of the community. She was known for her hospitality and her delicious cooking, and she often shared her recipes with the women of the town.

One day, Josefa had invited Maria's grandmother into her kitchen and taught her how to make this special dish. It was a simple yet comforting stew made with tender chunks of beef, spicy green chilies, and hearty potatoes. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect blend of Spanish and Native American influences.

As Maria described the ingredients and the cooking process, I could practically taste the savory broth and feel the warmth of the spices. I knew that I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself. Maria was more than happy to teach me, and we spent the rest of the afternoon chopping vegetables, browning meat, and simmering the stew until it was thick and fragrant.

When we finally sat down to eat, I was overwhelmed by the deliciousness of the Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson. The tender beef melted in my mouth, the green chilies added a subtle heat, and the potatoes soaked up all the rich flavors of the broth. It was a meal that truly warmed the soul and brought a taste of history to my dinner table.

From that day on, the Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made it for special occasions and shared it with friends and family, always recounting the story of how I had learned the recipe from Maria and her grandmother.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own touch with extra spices or different types of meat. But the heart of the dish remains the same, a tribute to the legacy of Josefa Carson and the rich culinary heritage of the American Southwest.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of simmering stew on my own stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the chance to learn this recipe and carry on a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The Bowl of the Wife of Kit Carson is more than just a meal – it is a connection to the past, a taste of history that will always hold a special place in my heart. And every time I take a bite, I am reminded of the love and friendship that brought this recipe into my life.