Hen with Tomatoes
Hen with Tomatoes Recipe from Romania
Introduction
Hen with tomatoes is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of tender chicken with the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes. This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that is both delicious and nutritious.
History
The origins of hen with tomatoes can be traced back to traditional European cuisine, where chicken and tomatoes are commonly used in a variety of dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to make it their own.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Sauté the chicken pieces in butter.
- When almost cooked, add the finely chopped onion and flour, continuously stirring.
- Next, add the halved and seeded tomatoes, paprika, salt, and sugar.
- Cover and simmer until the tomatoes are cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Avoid stirring while simmering.
- Instead, shake the pan gently.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole hen for a different texture.
- Spice it up with some chili flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to sauté the chicken pieces in butter to give them a rich and flavorful taste.
- When adding the tomatoes, be sure to remove the seeds to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Cover the pan while simmering to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
- Avoid stirring the dish too much while simmering, as this can break apart the chicken pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hen with tomatoes over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Sauté, simmer
Ingredient Substitutions
Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.
- Substitute chicken broth for water for added flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish 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 hen with tomatoes in a shallow bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair hen with tomatoes with a light and crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 250 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 12g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 8g per serving
Saturated Fat: 3g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 15% of daily value per serving
Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving
Iron: 10% of daily value per serving
Alergens
Contains dairy (butter)
Summary
Hen with tomatoes is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Summary
Hen with tomatoes is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Hen with Tomatoes. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little village in Italy. Maria was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I had always admired how effortlessly she whipped up delicious meals for her family.
As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on homemade wine and chatting about life, Maria suddenly pulled out an old, weathered cookbook from a dusty shelf. She flipped through the pages with a twinkle in her eye, and then she stopped at a recipe that caught my attention. It was a recipe for Hen with Tomatoes, a traditional dish that was passed down through generations in her family.
Maria explained that this recipe was a favorite of her grandmother, who was known for her culinary prowess in the village. She fondly recalled how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each ingredient with love and precision. The secret, she said, was in the slow simmering of the tomatoes and the tenderizing of the hen.
I was immediately intrigued and asked Maria if she would be willing to teach me how to make this dish. With a warm smile, she agreed, and we set out to gather all the necessary ingredients from her garden and pantry.
We started by marinating the hen in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, letting it soak up all the flavors for a few hours. In the meantime, we peeled and chopped fresh tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, creating a vibrant medley of colors and aromas.
As we heated up a large pot on the stove, the fragrant scent of garlic and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Maria guided me through each step with patience and skill, showing me how to brown the hen to perfection before adding in the tomatoes and vegetables.
As the hen simmered away in the rich tomato sauce, Maria shared stories of her childhood and the times she spent in the kitchen with her grandmother. She spoke of the love and care that went into every dish, and how food had the power to bring people together and create lasting memories.
Finally, after hours of slow cooking and careful attention, the Hen with Tomatoes was ready. We plated it up with a side of crusty bread and a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs, and sat down to enjoy our creation.
The first bite was a revelation. The tender, juicy hen paired perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a harmony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn such a cherished recipe from my dear friend.
As we finished our meal, Maria and I exchanged knowing smiles, content in the knowledge that we had created something truly special together. The recipe for Hen with Tomatoes had not only filled our bellies but also warmed our hearts with memories of the past and the promise of more delicious meals to come.
And so, whenever I make this dish now, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by love, laughter, and the aroma of simmering tomatoes. I am forever grateful for the gift of this recipe and the lifelong friendship that inspired it.
Categories
| Chicken Recipes | Onion Recipes | Romanian Meat Dishes | Romanian Recipes | Tomato Recipes |