Bulgarian-style Riesling Chicken Stew

Ingredients

In this Bulgarian adaptation of Coq au Riesling, we incorporate traditional Bulgarian ingredients and flavors to give the dish a distinct twist. The addition of paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while the use of Bulgarian yogurt adds a creamy and tangy element to the stew. The dish is also served with Bulgarian rice or bread, which complements the flavors and textures of the stew. We alse have the original recipe for Coq au Riesling, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 250 ml (1 cup) Riesling wine 250 ml (1 cup) Riesling wine
• 250 ml (1 cup) chicken broth 250 ml (1 cup) chicken broth
• 250 ml (1 cup) Bulgarian yogurt 250 ml (1 cup) Bulgarian yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. 3.
   Stir in the paprika and cook for an additional minute.
4. 4.
   Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the Riesling wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. 5.
   Cover the pot and let the stew cook for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. 6.
   Stir in the Bulgarian yogurt and fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Serve the Bulgarian-style Riesling Chicken Stew hot with Bulgarian rice or crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Make sure to brown the chicken pieces well before simmering to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Paprika — Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for the best flavor.
• Bulgarian yogurt — Opt for full-fat Bulgarian yogurt for a creamy and tangy taste.
• Riesling wine — Choose a dry or off-dry Riesling wine to balance the flavors of the stew.
• Fresh dill — Add the fresh dill towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of Bulgarian chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to deepen and develop further.

Serving advice

Serve the Bulgarian-style Riesling Chicken Stew in deep bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh dill. Accompany it with Bulgarian rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place a few whole dill sprigs on top of the stew before serving. Serve the stew in rustic clay bowls for an authentic Bulgarian touch.