Welcoming the warm and comforting flavors of traditional German cuisine into your home is easier than you may think. Today, we’re bringing you a classic German dish that offers a delightful blend of creamy goodness and savory chicken – Hühnerfrikassee. This creamy chicken stew is perfect for cozy nights in or to impress your guests with a taste of Germany. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
**Hühnerfrikassee**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 leek, sliced
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 cup white wine
– 4 cups chicken stock
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches until they develop a golden crust. Set aside on a plate.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot. Add the bay leaves and chicken stock, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it gently simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones.
7. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and let the stew simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the flavors will continue to develop, so don’t be afraid to add a little extra seasoning.
9. Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Serve the Hühnerfrikassee hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of buttered noodles or fluffy rice to soak up all the creamy goodness.
Enjoy the hearty flavors and comforting aroma of this traditional German dish that brings a taste of home-cooked comfort to your table. Serve your loved ones this Hühnerfrikassee, and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your household. Prost (cheers)!
