Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff

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Chicken Stroganoff, with its creamy, savory allure, didn’t start out in Brazil. Its roots can be traced back to early 19th-century Russia. The original version was quite the revelation, a simplistic combination of sautéed chicken and a rich, hearty sauce. This dish was named after the Stroganoff family, who were Russian aristocrats back in the day. You could say it’s gone a long way from its noble beginnings.

As time passed and people moved, Chicken Stroganoff’s recipe wandered from the snowy Russian plains to warmer Brazilian climates. During the 20th century, European immigrants, who were flocking to Brazil, brought their home flavors with them. Among these was Stroganoff, a dish that seemed to adapt well to the new tropical environment.

Brazil absorbed the Stroganoff and made it its own, giving birth to a vibrant culinary blend that incorporates local ingredients and flavors. The Brazilian twist? Swapping out beef for chicken, and mixing in more cream to suit their tastes. This evolution reflects Brazil’s dynamic culture and openness to changing and making things their own. You’ll often find hints of tomato sauce or even ketchup in some recipes, bringing sweet tanginess to the traditional richness. It’s a dish that shows how blending cultures can lead to something entirely new yet warmly familiar.

The Role of Chicken Stroganoff in Brazilian Cuisine and Culture

Chicken Stroganoff is practically a staple in Brazilian homes, celebrated for its blend of convenience and comfort. You’ll find it on dinner tables across the country, often shared with family and friends. Its widespread appeal lies in its creamy texture and versatile nature, making it a go-to dish in Brazilian culinary traditions.

In Brazil, Chicken Stroganoff isn’t just another dinner option; it’s an experience reserved for both special occasions and casual gatherings. Families might serve it during Sunday lunches, a time honored for bringing relatives together, or even during festive celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. The dish’s appeal spans across regions and social classes, finding a place in both upscale dining and humble home-cooked meals.

When Brazilians celebrate national holidays, Chicken Stroganoff might make an appearance as a comfort dish amidst the festivity. It’s a way to keep things easy yet indulgent. Many people enjoy it during the Carnival season or as a hearty meal during winter holidays. Besides being delicious, its ease of preparation makes it ideal for such events, where simplicity meets satisfaction.

Creating the Perfect Meal: Pairing and Serving Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff

When it comes to pairing Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff, the classics set the standard. Traditionally, it’s served with a side of perfectly cooked white rice, ensuring that every spoonful of savory sauce is soaked up. The rice acts as a neutral backdrop, highlighting the flavors of the Stroganoff without overshadowing them.

A beloved companion to the dish is also golden, crispy shoestring fries. These add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy Stroganoff. It’s a textural harmony that’s become synonymous with Brazilian dining, offering both comfort and satisfaction.

For those who love a fresh twist, a simple green salad is ideal. The crispness of lettuce, cucumbers, and maybe a few tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette can refresh the palate between bites, keeping the meal balanced. It’s an effortless way to add some greens to the mix.

Drinks can elevate the dining experience, too. A chilled beer or a fruity caipirinha pairs well with Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich dish. With every sip, the flavors dance together, offering a vibrant culinary journey.

Those looking for a modern spin often try incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, adding a burst of freshness. Experimenting with side dishes like couscous or even mashed potatoes can create exciting variations on this traditional favorite, keeping the dining experience exciting each time.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken breast sliced into 1/2 inch to 1 inch cubes
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp ghee
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp white wine (optional, especially for deglazing)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• Batata Palha (potato sticks) for garnish

Instructions

1. Place cubed chicken in a bowl with salt and pepper to taste mixed in
2. In a bowl, combine and whisk together the tomato sauce, ketchup, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika together, set aside
3. Preheat stainless steel pan to medium high heat
4. Add ghee to pan and allow to melt
5. Add chicken and cook until it starts to brown, about 3 to 5 minutes
6. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes
7. Add minced garlic and cook an additional 1 minute
8. Add white wine and deglaze the pan, scraping any ingredients and allow to reduce for 2 minutes
9. Reduce heat to simmer and add tomato sauce mix to pan, simmer 3 minutes
10. Add the heavy cream, mix well into ingredients and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened
11. Serve chicken and cream over Brazilian Rice, top with Batata Palha (Brazilian Potato sticks)

Enjoy! This is addicting, as are most Brazilian dishes. Be sure to make enough so everyone can have seconds.