Contents
A traditional Romanian garlic chicken stew, known as Ostropel de Pui, made with chicken, garlic, tomatoes, and white wine, simmered to perfection and served with polenta.
Ingredients
- 700 g chicken legs or drumsticks 🍗
- 8 garlic cloves, minced, grated, or sliced 🧄
- 1 onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes 🍅
- 200 ml chicken stock
- 100 ml white wine (optional) 🍷
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
- Salt & pepper, to taste 🧂
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish 🌿
- Polenta or mashed potatoes, for serving 🍽️
Instructions
Brown the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Place them in the pan and fry for about 9-10 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes to evaporate the alcohol.
Create the Sauce:
- Add the chopped tomatoes and chicken stock, stirring well.
- Return the chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce.
Simmer to Perfection:
- Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
- Serve hot with polenta or mashed potatoes. 🥄
Notes
Ostropel de Pui is a traditional Romanian dish that combines tender chicken with a savory tomato and garlic sauce. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s a comforting recipe that has long been a staple in Romanian home cooking.⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Bursting with Flavor – Garlic, tomatoes, and chicken create a rich, savory sauce.✅ One-Pan Wonder – Everything is cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup.
✅ Perfect Comfort Food – Serve with polenta, mashed potatoes, or bread.
✅ Authentic & Traditional – A true classic of Romanian cuisine.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Ostropel de Pui
✔️ Garlic Lovers – Use more than 6 cloves if you enjoy a stronger flavor.✔️ Texture Choices – Grate all the garlic for a smooth sauce, or slice some for added texture.
✔️ Flavor Deepens Overnight – Like many stews, it tastes even better the next day.
✔️ Perfect Pairing – Traditionally served with polenta, but crusty bread or mashed potatoes also work well.
❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
🕰️ Can I Make This in Advance?Yes. Ostropel de Pui can be made a day ahead, and the flavors improve as it rests. 🧊 How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. 🍗 Can I Use Other Chicken Cuts?
Yes. Drumsticks and legs are traditional, but thighs or even boneless breasts can be used. 🍷 Can I Skip the Wine?
Yes. Replace with extra chicken stock or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
This looks absolutely delicious! I love the simplicity of the ingredients and the promise of that garlicky, rich flavor. The photo (if there is one!) would make me want to run to the kitchen right now. Definitely adding this to my “to-cook” list – thanks for sharing!