Directions
Traditional Chicken and Savoy Cabbage: A Hearty Classic from Italy
Italian traditional cuisine is a priceless treasure, filled with recipes passed down through generations. Chicken with savoy cabbage is one such dish that embodies the simplicity and authenticity of our culinary heritage. This rustic meal, typical of northern Italian regions, is perfect for the colder months due to its rich flavors and hearty texture.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Savoy Cabbage
To achieve an authentic and flavorful dish, it’s essential to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 whole chicken (cleaned and ready for cooking)
- 1 large savoy cabbage
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 glasses of red wine
- 1 glass of water
- Extra virgin olive oil (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Preparation of Chicken and Savoy Cabbage
- Preparing the Aromatic Base
The first step to creating a delicious chicken and savoy cabbage dish is to make a flavorful aromatic base:- Coarsely chop the carrot, celery, and onion.
- In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
- Add the crushed garlic clove and the chopped vegetables.
- Sauté on low heat until the vegetables are soft and lightly browned.
- Cooking the Chicken
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces after cleaning and rinsing it thoroughly.
- Place the chicken pieces into the pot with the sautéed vegetables and brown them evenly on all sides.
- Once the meat is sealed, pour in the two glasses of red wine, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Adding Spices and Broth
- Pour a glass of water into the pot, along with the bay leaf.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This time allows the meat to become tender and absorb the flavors from the broth.
- Incorporating the Savoy Cabbage
- While the chicken is cooking, wash the savoy cabbage and slice it into thin strips.
- After 30 minutes, add the cabbage to the pot, mixing well to combine the ingredients.
- Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Savoy Cabbage
- Ideal Accompaniment: Serve the chicken and savoy cabbage with slices of rustic toasted bread or soft polenta for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine, such as Barbera or Nebbiolo, complements the rich and intense flavors of this dish.
Regional Variations and Interesting Facts
- Version with Bacon: Some regional adaptations include adding smoked bacon to the initial sauté to enhance the flavor.
- Free-Range Chicken: Using a free-range chicken is advisable, as its firmer, more flavorful meat yields an even more authentic result.
- Cavolo Nero Instead of Savoy Cabbage: In certain areas, savoy cabbage may be replaced with cavolo nero, a delicious alternative that adds a slightly bitter note to the dish.
Why You Should Try Chicken with Savoy Cabbage
Making chicken and savoy cabbage is not just an opportunity to enjoy a wonderful meal. It is also a chance to rediscover traditional flavors and the joy of sharing food. This dish represents a moment of togetherness, harkening back to the roots of home cooking that warms both the heart and the palate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken and Savoy Cabbage
- Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey for a milder flavor or if you prefer a tender meat. However, free-range chicken is ideal for preserving the traditional recipe and achieving an authentic taste. - How long does the cooking take for chicken and savoy cabbage?
The total cooking time is about an hour and a half. The chicken needs approximately 30 minutes of initial cooking, followed by another 30 to 40 minutes after adding the cabbage until it is fully cooked. - Can I prepare chicken and savoy cabbage in advance?
Absolutely! This dish benefits from being made ahead of time, as the flavors meld together and become even more delicious when reheated. - What is the best side dish to serve with chicken and savoy cabbage?
Ideal side dishes include polenta, mashed potatoes, or rustic bread, which help soak up the rich and savory sauce. - Can I freeze chicken and savoy cabbage?
Yes, you can freeze chicken and savoy cabbage in airtight containers once it has completely cooled. When you wish to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it slowly in a pot.
