Hen with Quinces

Hen with Quinces Recipe - Traditional Romanian Dish

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Hen with quinces is a traditional dish that combines the savory flavors of tender hen meat with the sweet and tangy taste of quinces. This recipe is a perfect example of how contrasting flavors can come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe has its origins in traditional European cuisine, where quinces were a popular ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. The combination of hen and quinces creates a unique and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

6 portions of hen (breast, thighs, etc.)
4 medium quinces
2 tbsp of flour
2 – 3 tbsp of lard
2 tsp of sugar
salt

How to prepare

Fry the pieces of hen in a tablespoon of lard until they turn yellow.
Add half a teaspoon of flour and salt, cover with water and simmer, keeping it covered.
Meanwhile, peel the quinces, cut them into thick slices, remove the seeds, coat them with flour and fry them in lard on both sides.
When the meat is almost cooked, add a teaspoon of caramelized sugar to which a little chicken broth or water has been added, and also add a teaspoon of regular sugar.
Place the quinces on top of the meat, cover the pan and let it simmer.
Do not stir, but shake the pan occasionally.
The sauce should be greatly reduced.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the hen with tofu or seitan.
You can also add some spices like cinnamon or cloves to give the dish a more exotic flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the hen pieces until they are golden brown before simmering them in water. This will help to seal in the juices and keep the meat tender.

- Be sure to coat the quinces in flour before frying them. This will help to create a crispy exterior and prevent them from becoming mushy.

- When adding the caramelized sugar to the dish, be sure to mix it with a little chicken broth or water to prevent it from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hen with quinces with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to cook the hen and quinces slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. Be sure to cover the pan while simmering to trap in the moisture and create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find quinces, you can substitute them with apples or pears. You can also use chicken or turkey instead of hen for a lighter version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the hen with quinces on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also sprinkle some toasted almonds or pine nuts on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes. It also goes well with a glass of red wine or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Vitamin C: 15mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Gluten

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and iron, but it is also high in fat and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Hen with quinces is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a sunny afternoon, the birds were chirping, and the smell of fresh flowers filled the air. I was rummaging through a dusty old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the back of my pantry. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, a faded recipe caught my eye - Hen with Quinces.

I had never heard of this dish before, but something about it intrigued me. The recipe was written in elegant cursive handwriting, with detailed instructions and a list of ingredients that I had never heard of. Quinces? I wasn't even sure what those were.

Determined to learn more about this mysterious recipe, I set out on a quest to uncover its origins. I asked my friends, my neighbors, and even the local grocer if they had ever heard of a dish called Hen with Quinces. But no one seemed to have a clue.

Finally, after weeks of searching, I stumbled upon an old lady at the farmer's market who claimed to know all about the dish. She told me that Hen with Quinces was a traditional recipe passed down through generations in her family. She had learned to make it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on.

Intrigued by this newfound information, I convinced the old lady to share the recipe with me. She agreed, but only under one condition - I had to promise to carry on the tradition and pass the recipe down to future generations.

I eagerly agreed and listened intently as she recited the recipe to me. Hen with Quinces, she explained, was a rustic dish that combined the flavors of tender hen meat with the sweet and tangy taste of quinces. The secret, she said, was to cook the hen slowly in a rich broth until it was fall-off-the-bone tender, then add the quinces to the pot to simmer until they were soft and fragrant.

Armed with this newfound knowledge, I set out to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. I sourced a plump hen from the local farmer, along with a basket of ripe quinces. As I chopped, seasoned, and stirred, the aroma of the dish filled my kitchen, transporting me back in time to a simpler era.

When the dish was finally ready, I sat down at the table to taste it for the first time. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever experienced - the tender hen meat melted in my mouth, while the quinces added a burst of sweetness and acidity that balanced the dish perfectly.

As I savored each bite, I felt a deep sense of connection to the past. I could picture generations of women before me, standing in their kitchens, stirring pots of Hen with Quinces and passing down the recipe from mother to daughter.

And so, I vowed to honor the old lady's request and continue the tradition of making Hen with Quinces. I shared the recipe with my own daughter, who in turn shared it with her daughter. And now, whenever I make this dish, I feel the presence of all those who came before me, guiding my hand and filling my kitchen with love.

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It may have started as a simple curiosity, but it has grown into a cherished family tradition that will be passed down for generations to come. And for that, I am eternally grateful.