Ground Chicken With Walnuts

Ground Chicken With Walnuts Recipe from Turkey

Region / culture: Turkey | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ground Chicken With Walnuts is a traditional dish that is popular in many Middle Eastern countries. This dish is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and flavorful spices creates a unique and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Ground Chicken With Walnuts has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. This dish is often served during special occasions and celebrations, as it is considered a delicacy in many cultures. The combination of chicken and walnuts provides a rich and satisfying flavor that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

1 chicken, cut into pieces
1 medium whole potato, peeled
1 small whole onion, peeled
1 small whole carrot, peeled
4 cups water
1.5 tsp salt
2 (1-inch thick) slices stale french bread, crusts removed
14 oz (397 g) walnuts, ground
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tsp ground red pepper
1 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a large saucepan over medium heat, add chicken, potato, onion, and carrot.
Pour in water and bring it to a boil.
Skim any foam from the surface and season with 1.5 tsp of salt.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
Strain and reserve the broth. Discard the vegetables.
Allow the chicken to cool, then remove the skin and bones and shred the meat into very small pieces.
Soften the bread in some of the chicken broth, then squeeze out the excess liquid.
In a large bowl, combine the bread, ground walnuts, garlic, red pepper, and 1 tsp of salt.
Using your hands, mix well as if you were making meatballs.
Place the mixture in cheesecloth and squeeze out the oil produced by the ground walnuts into a small bowl; set it aside.
Place the walnut mixture into a large bowl.
Slowly blend in 1 cup of reserved chicken broth until the consistency is like thick soup.
Place the shredded chicken in a porcelain or glass serving dish.
Stir in 2 to 3 tbsp of the walnut mixture.
Cover the chicken with the remaining walnut mixture so that the chicken is not visible.
Smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.
Pour the reserved walnut oil over the top.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Additionally, you can add in additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When preparing Ground Chicken With Walnuts, it is important to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results. Be sure to cook the chicken and vegetables until they are tender, as this will ensure that the dish is flavorful and delicious. Additionally, be sure to mix the walnut mixture thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are well combined.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Chicken With Walnuts can be served with a side of rice or couscous for a complete meal. Additionally, this dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Cooking Techniques

When preparing Ground Chicken With Walnuts, be sure to simmer the chicken and vegetables until they are tender. This will ensure that the flavors are well developed and the dish is delicious. Additionally, be sure to mix the walnut mixture thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are well combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have walnuts on hand, you can substitute them with almonds or pistachios for a similar flavor and texture. Additionally, you can use ground turkey or beef in place of the chicken for a different variation of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Ground Chicken With Walnuts can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the dish in the oven or microwave before serving for a quick and easy meal option.

Presentation Ideas

To make Ground Chicken With Walnuts look more visually appealing, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Additionally, you can sprinkle some extra ground red pepper on top for added flavor and spice.

Pairing Recommendations

Ground Chicken With Walnuts pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing glass of iced tea. Additionally, this dish pairs well with a side of hummus or tzatziki for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Ground Chicken With Walnuts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in the oven or microwave until heated through. Be sure to stir the dish well before serving to ensure that the flavors are well combined.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ground Chicken With Walnuts contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option. This dish is a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without consuming too many calories.

Carbohydrates

Ground Chicken With Walnuts is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Fats

Walnuts are a great source of healthy fats, which are essential for overall health. Each serving of Ground Chicken With Walnuts contains approximately 25 grams of fat, most of which comes from the walnuts. These healthy fats can help to support heart health and provide long-lasting energy.

Proteins

Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Each serving of Ground Chicken With Walnuts contains approximately 20 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Walnuts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and copper. These nutrients are important for overall health and can help to support a strong immune system. Additionally, chicken is a good source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy production.

Alergens

Ground Chicken With Walnuts contains nuts (walnuts) and gluten (bread), so it may not be suitable for those with nut or gluten allergies. Be sure to check for any allergens before preparing this dish.

Summary

Ground Chicken With Walnuts is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is a great option for those looking to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal that is both comforting and nutritious.

Summary

Ground Chicken With Walnuts is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. This dish is packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal option. Be sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients when preparing this dish for the best results.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear. It all began when I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, in her cozy little cottage nestled in the countryside. Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for us during my visits.

One afternoon, as I sat at her kitchen table sipping on a cup of tea, Mrs. Jenkins pulled out a worn and stained recipe card from her recipe box. She explained that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations, and she wanted to share it with me. The recipe was for Ground Chicken With Walnuts, a dish that sounded intriguing and delicious.

Mrs. Jenkins guided me through the steps of preparing the dish, showing me how to finely chop the chicken and mix it with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. She then added in the chopped walnuts, which gave the dish a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. As the dish cooked on the stove, the aroma of the herbs and spices filled the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When the dish was finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins served it up on a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts. The first bite was a revelation – the flavors of the dish were rich and complex, with a perfect balance of savory and nutty notes. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Ground Chicken With Walnuts countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am proud to serve to my loved ones.

As I think back on that day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for her generosity in sharing her family recipe with me. It has not only brought joy and satisfaction to my own cooking endeavors, but has also created lasting memories of time spent with loved ones gathered around the dinner table, enjoying a delicious meal together.

I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish both body and soul. And I am grateful for the knowledge and wisdom that has been passed down to me through the generations, allowing me to create flavorful and comforting meals that bring joy and happiness to those I love.

In the end, it is not just about the recipe itself, but the memories and traditions that it represents. Every time I make Ground Chicken With Walnuts, I am transported back to that day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and love of a dear friend. And for that, I am truly grateful.