Calabaza con Pollo (Chicken and Squash)

Calabaza con Pollo (Chicken and Squash) Recipe - Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Calabaza con Pollo, or Chicken and Squash, is a traditional Mexican dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful squash and a variety of spices. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends.

History

Calabaza con Pollo has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for generations. The combination of chicken and squash is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a popular choice for home cooks and chefs alike.

Ingredients

1 chicken, cut into small pieces
3 tbsp oil
2 Medium Mexican squash, diced
0.5 tsp mashed cumin seed
1-2 cloves of garlic, mashed
0.25 tsp black pepper
1 chopped onion
0.5°C tomato sauce (or 1°C stewed tomato)
1 Small bell pepper, sliced
1.5°C water
16 oz (454 g) of Frozen corn or Fresh if available
1 tsp tomato flavored chicken Buillion

How to prepare

Brown the chicken in oil until cooked thoroughly.
Drain excess oil and stir in the squash.
Add all the remaining ingredients and stir well.
Cook for 25-35 minutes over low heat.
Substitution:
You can substitute 4 chicken breasts for the chicken. If there is too much broth, boil for an additional 6 minutes uncovered.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra vegetables.
Use different spices such as paprika or chili powder for a spicier version.
Substitute chicken with pork or beef for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken thoroughly before adding the squash to ensure that it is cooked through.

- Stir in the squash gently to avoid breaking it apart.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less cumin, garlic, or black pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Calabaza con Pollo can be served with rice, tortillas, or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before adding the squash helps to develop flavor.

- Cooking the dish over low heat allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use zucchini or butternut squash if Mexican squash is not available.

- Substitute chicken broth for water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Calabaza con Pollo can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Calabaza con Pollo in a colorful bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. Pair with a side of rice or tortillas for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and refreshing beverage such as a cold beer or a glass of white wine. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a glass of agua fresca.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Calabaza con Pollo contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Calabaza con Pollo is a low-carb dish, with most of the carbohydrates coming from the squash and corn. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with most of the fat coming from the oil used for cooking the chicken. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Calabaza con Pollo is a protein-rich dish, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams of protein from the chicken and corn.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium from the squash, bell pepper, and tomato. It also contains iron and zinc from the chicken.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken and corn, which are common allergens. It is important to check for any allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Overall, Calabaza con Pollo is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a family meal.

Summary

Calabaza con Pollo is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. With its tender chicken, flavorful squash, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Calabaza con Pollo. The combination of tender chicken and sweet squash seemed like a match made in culinary heaven. I had always been a lover of both ingredients separately, but the thought of combining them in a delicious stew was truly tantalizing.

I learned this recipe from my dear friend Rosa, a woman who hailed from the beautiful region of Calabria in Italy. She had a knack for creating mouthwatering dishes that were bursting with flavor, and I was lucky enough to be her apprentice in the kitchen for a brief period of time. It was during one of our cooking sessions that she shared with me the secrets of her Calabaza con Pollo.

Rosa began by explaining the importance of using the freshest and highest quality ingredients when making this dish. She stressed the importance of sourcing a good, free-range chicken and a ripe, sweet squash. She also emphasized the significance of using a good quality olive oil, fresh herbs, and a touch of white wine to enhance the flavors of the dish.

The first step in making Calabaza con Pollo was to sear the chicken pieces in a hot skillet until they were golden brown and crispy on the outside. This step was crucial, as it helped to lock in the juices of the chicken and create a flavorful base for the stew. Once the chicken was browned, I removed it from the skillet and set it aside.

Next, I sautéed a mixture of onions, garlic, and bell peppers in the same skillet until they were soft and translucent. This step added a depth of flavor to the dish and created a fragrant base for the stew. Once the vegetables were cooked, I added the squash, diced tomatoes, and a splash of white wine to the skillet.

As the squash cooked down and released its natural sweetness, I added the seared chicken pieces back to the skillet and allowed them to simmer in the flavorful broth. The aromas that filled the kitchen were absolutely intoxicating, and I knew that this dish was going to be something truly special.

Once the chicken was cooked through and the squash was tender, I added a handful of fresh herbs to the stew. I used a combination of parsley, rosemary, and thyme to add a burst of freshness and flavor to the dish. I also seasoned the stew with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

As I stirred the stew and allowed the flavors to meld together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The dish looked and smelled absolutely divine, and I knew that Rosa would be proud of my efforts.

Finally, it was time to serve the Calabaza con Pollo. I ladled the stew into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, and I couldn't wait to dig in and savor every bite.

As I took my first spoonful of the Calabaza con Pollo, I was transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The flavors of the tender chicken, sweet squash, and aromatic herbs danced on my palate, creating a symphony of taste that was truly unforgettable.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I would share with friends and family for years to come. And as I looked back on the day that I first learned to make Calabaza con Pollo from Rosa, I couldn't help but feel grateful for her guidance and wisdom in the kitchen.

This recipe was more than just a delicious meal – it was a connection to a dear friend and a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together. And as I savored the last spoonful of the stew, I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart.