Hen with Olives
Hen with Olives: A Traditional Romanian Dish
Introduction
Hen with Olives is a classic Mediterranean dish that combines tender hen pieces with the briny flavor of black olives. This recipe is a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors that will surely delight your taste buds.
History
This recipe has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where olives are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of hen and olives creates a unique and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for generations.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Fry the hen pieces in 2 tbsp of oil, then add 3 – 4 tbsp of water and simmer.
- Occasionally turn the pieces, adding 2 – 3 tbsp of water.
- When the meat is half done, add washed and pricked.
- In a separate pan, fry the chopped onion in two tablespoons of oil until it turns yellow.
- Add the flour and let it fry a little longer, then add a cup of chicken broth or water, tomato sauce, salt, sugar, bay leaf, and wine or vinegar.
- Pour this sauce over the meat and let it boil until the meat is done.
- You may serve this dish warm or cold.
Variations
- Substitute black olives with green olives for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and freshness.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or paprika.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to brown the hen pieces before simmering to lock in the flavors.
- Prick the olives before adding them to the dish to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt, sugar, or vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
Hen with Olives can be served with a side of couscous, rice, or crusty bread. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables make a great accompaniment to this dish.
Cooking Techniques
Browning the hen pieces before simmering helps to develop a rich flavor.
- Simmering the dish slowly allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of hen pieces.
- Substitute white wine for the vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Hen with Olives can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Hen with Olives in a shallow serving dish garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright and zesty touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Hen with Olives with a glass of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. A light and fruity red wine will complement the savory flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Hen with Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Hen with Olives contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Hen with Olives contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Hen with Olives contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Hen with Olives contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Hen with Olives is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains olives and may not be suitable for individuals with olive allergies.
Summary
Hen with Olives is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins and fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Hen with Olives is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special dinner or a casual weeknight meal. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a memorable dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little village nestled in the hills of Tuscany. Maria was renowned for her culinary skills, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.
On this particular day, Maria invited me into her rustic kitchen to show me how to make a traditional Tuscan dish - Hen with Olives. I had never heard of this dish before, but as soon as I took my first bite, I knew it was something special. The tender hen, braised in a savory broth with plump olives and fragrant herbs, was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate.
As Maria guided me through the recipe, I watched intently, taking notes and asking questions. She explained that the key to a successful Hen with Olives lies in the quality of the ingredients and the slow, gentle cooking process. She showed me how to brown the hen in a hot skillet, deglaze with white wine, and simmer it with a medley of vegetables and herbs until the meat was falling off the bone.
I was mesmerized by Maria's skill and passion for cooking. She told me stories of how she learned to make this dish from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. I could see the love and tradition that went into every step of the process, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
After a few hours of cooking and chatting, the Hen with Olives was finally ready. Maria served it with crusty bread and a simple salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. As we sat down to eat, the flavors exploded in my mouth, transporting me to a cozy farmhouse kitchen in the heart of Tuscany.
I knew that I had stumbled upon a treasure that day, and I was determined to make this dish a staple in my own kitchen. I asked Maria for a copy of the recipe, and she gladly wrote it down for me on a weathered scrap of parchment. I tucked it away in my recipe box, promising myself that I would recreate this magical meal for my family and friends back home.
When I returned to my own kitchen, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients for Hen with Olives. I carefully followed Maria's instructions, savoring each step of the cooking process. The aromas that wafted through my kitchen were intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.
Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I plated the Hen with Olives with a flourish, garnishing it with fresh herbs and a sprinkling of sea salt. As I took my first bite, a rush of memories flooded back - the rolling hills of Tuscany, the laughter shared with dear friends, and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my own family.
From that day on, Hen with Olives became a regular feature on my dinner table. I shared the recipe with my daughters and grandchildren, passing down the culinary legacy that had been entrusted to me by Maria. Each time I made the dish, I felt a connection to my dear friend and the rich tapestry of experiences we had shared in her kitchen that summer day.
Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling Hen with Olives, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back. The recipe may have originated in a small village in Tuscany, but it has found a permanent home in my heart - a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting bonds that transcend time and distance. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Categories
| Black Olive Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | Onion Recipes | Romanian Meat Dishes | Romanian Recipes | Tomato Sauce Recipes |