Smothered Chicken Recipe from Romania with Lard, Salt, and Garlic

Smothered Chicken

Smothered Chicken Recipe from Romania with Lard, Salt, and Garlic
Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Smothered Chicken
Smothered Chicken

Smothered Chicken is a classic Southern dish that is known for its rich and flavorful gravy. This dish is perfect for a comforting and hearty meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

History

Smothered Chicken has roots in Southern cuisine, where it was traditionally made with chicken that was slow-cooked in a rich gravy until it was tender and flavorful. This dish has been passed down through generations and is a staple in many Southern households.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Season the chicken with salt and place it in a pan with melted lard.
  2. Fry the chicken on all sides, then add 4 – 5 tbsp of water or chicken broth. Cover the pan and let it simmer.
  3. Occasionally turn the chicken and if the liquid reduces too much, add 1 – 2 tbsp of water.
  4. Towards the end, you can add a small amount of crushed garlic.
  5. Serve the chicken with french fries and a side of green lettuce or cucumber salad.

Variations

  • Add diced onions and bell peppers to the gravy for added flavor.
  • Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to ensure that it is flavorful.

- Be sure to brown the chicken on all sides before adding the liquid to develop a rich flavor.

- Keep an eye on the liquid level while the chicken is simmering to prevent it from drying out.

- Adding garlic towards the end of cooking will give the dish a delicious aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Smothered Chicken with a side of mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow-cooking the chicken in a covered pan allows it to become tender and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable oil instead of lard if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Smothered Chicken on a platter with the gravy drizzled over the top for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Smothered Chicken with a glass of red wine or sweet tea for a delicious meal.

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

200 per serving

Carbohydrates

0g per serving

Fats

10g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains lard, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Smothered Chicken is a high-protein dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of iron and vitamin B12.

Summary

Smothered Chicken is a classic Southern dish that is perfect for a comforting and hearty meal. With its rich and flavorful gravy, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was immediately greeted by the delicious aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the air.

Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook and I always admired her culinary skills. She had a way of making the simplest ingredients come alive with flavor. On that particular day, she was preparing a dish called Smothered Chicken. I had never heard of it before, but the name alone made my mouth water.

I watched intently as Mrs. Jenkins worked her magic in the kitchen. She started by browning the chicken pieces in a hot skillet, which filled the room with a tantalizing sizzle. Then, she added onions, bell peppers, and garlic, letting them cook until they were soft and fragrant.

Next, she poured in a rich tomato sauce and sprinkled in a blend of herbs and spices. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. Mrs. Jenkins let the chicken simmer on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a mouthwatering sauce.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Smothered Chicken. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. The chicken was tender and juicy, the sauce was savory and full of depth, and the vegetables added a delightful crunch. I was in culinary heaven.

I begged Mrs. Jenkins for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me. She told me that the key to a great Smothered Chicken was to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to let the dish simmer slowly to allow the flavors to develop.

From that day on, Smothered Chicken became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family, friends, and anyone else who was lucky enough to sit down at my table. The recipe became a cherished part of my cooking repertoire, and I always thought of Mrs. Jenkins whenever I made it.

Over the years, I added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs, spices, and vegetables. Each time I made Smothered Chicken, it was a labor of love, a tribute to the wonderful woman who had introduced me to this delicious dish.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing Smothered Chicken for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. Mrs. Jenkins may no longer be with us, but her legacy lives on in every bite of this savory, comforting dish.

I hope that one day my grandchildren will pass down this recipe to their own families, just as I did. And I hope that they will remember the joy and love that went into every pot of Smothered Chicken that I made for them.

As I take the first bite of my latest batch of Smothered Chicken, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen. The flavors are just as delicious as I remember, and I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind, and I am grateful for the culinary journey that it has taken me on.

Categories

| Chicken Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Romanian Meat Dishes | Romanian Recipes |

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