In the heart of Oltenia, where the land is fertile and meals are prepared with care, chicken with peas is a dish that brings to the table the authentic taste of the region. This traditional recipe, specific to the Vâlcea area, reminds us of the simple and healthy meals cooked with patience and love. In Oltenia, freshly picked peas from the garden meet free-range chicken in a dance of flavors completed by the sweetness of carrots, the freshness of bell peppers, and the fragrance of fresh dill.
It is said that the grandmothers of these lands used to prepare chicken with peas in large pots, putting their soul into every step of cooking. The chicken pieces were carefully browned, while onion, garlic, and ripe tomatoes gave the sauce a rich consistency and unmistakable taste. At the end, fresh dill added a distinct Oltenian note, embracing every ingredient with its intense aroma.
This recipe is an invitation to a traditional meal, where every spoonful takes you through the villages of Oltenia, across rolling hills and bountiful gardens. Oltenian-style chicken with peas is not just food, but part of Vâlcea’s culinary heritage, a recipe that warms the soul and brings to the plate the authenticity and richness of Oltenia.
Chicken with Peas – Traditional Recipe from Oltenia
Ingredients:
1 free-range chicken (or 4–5 chicken thighs)
500 g fresh or frozen peas
1 large onion
1 large carrot
1 red bell pepper
3–4 ripe tomatoes (or 200 ml tomato juice)
2–3 garlic cloves
1 bunch fresh dill
Salt and pepper, to taste
1–2 tablespoons sunflower oil
1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional, for a more intense taste)
Preparation Method:
Preparing the chicken: Cut the chicken into medium-sized pieces (if you are using free-range chicken, leave the pieces smaller so they cook thoroughly). In a deep pan or pot, heat the oil and place the chicken pieces to brown until they develop a golden color. Remove them and set aside.
Sautéing the vegetables: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden. Add the sliced carrot and the diced bell pepper, letting them soften slightly. Put in the minced garlic and the sweet paprika, stirring to release their aromas.
Adding the chicken and tomatoes: Return the chicken pieces to the pan together with the sautéed vegetables. Add the peeled and finely chopped tomatoes (or tomato juice) and mix well. Let it simmer on low heat until the chicken is almost cooked through.
Adding the peas: When the chicken is tender, add the peas and pour in a little water, just enough to cover the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the dish simmer slowly on low heat until the peas and chicken are well cooked and the sauce has slightly reduced.
Finishing and serving: At the end, add freshly chopped dill for an extra touch of authentic flavor. Dill is specific to Oltenian cuisine and perfectly complements this dish. Serve the hot chicken with peas, alongside a slice of homemade bread or polenta, for an authentic traditional Oltenian meal.
Why is chicken with peas a representative dish of Oltenia? Chicken with peas reflects the simplicity and authenticity of Oltenian cuisine. The dish highlights local ingredients, such as fresh peas and free-range chicken, alongside seasonings like dill, which is specific to the region. It is a meal cooked with patience, bringing the authentic taste of the Oltenian village to the plate.
What makes peas a key ingredient in this dish? Peas are sweet, tender, and rich in nutrients, offering a contrasting texture to the juicy chicken. They absorb the flavors of the sauce and vegetables, becoming an essential element that defines the balanced taste of the dish.
How does free-range chicken influence the final taste of the dish? Free-range chicken has a firmer texture and a distinct natural flavor that enriches the recipe. Unlike commercial chicken, free-range chicken requires slow cooking, which allows the flavors to blend, resulting in a dish full of savor.
Why is dill used in this recipe? Dill is an ingredient specific to Oltenian cuisine, bringing a unique freshness to the dish. Its strong aroma complements the sweetness of the peas and balances the richness of the sauce, being a key element of the recipe.
How can the seasonings be adjusted to personalize the recipe? For a more intense taste, sweet or hot paprika can be added. Fresh garlic can be replaced with roasted garlic for a milder flavor, while those who prefer a more aromatic dish can add a pinch of thyme or a bay leaf.
How should the chicken be cooked to achieve the perfect texture? The chicken must first be browned to seal in its juices, and then simmered slowly in the tomato and vegetable sauce. This process ensures tender and juicy meat that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
What role do the tomatoes play in this recipe? Tomatoes add a slightly sour note and contribute to forming a rich sauce that ties all the ingredients together. They can be used fresh, for a more natural flavor, or as tomato juice for quicker preparation.
How can the recipe be adapted to include other local ingredients? Instead of peas, green beans or diced zucchini can be added. The chicken can also be replaced with turkey or even pork pieces, while still preserving the traditional flavors through the use of dill and tomato sauce.
How can chicken with peas be served for an authentic meal? The dish is served hot, alongside polenta or homemade bread. For a complete experience, a simple cabbage salad or a pickled cucumber can be added, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors.
Why is this dish a suitable choice for family meals? Chicken with peas is a hearty, healthy dish that is easy to prepare in large quantities, making it ideal for family gatherings. Its rich and traditional taste brings together different generations, offering an occasion to celebrate Oltenian traditions.
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