Imagine a dish that combines the rich, tender flavors of succulent meat with the earthy goodness of barley and aromatic herbs - a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. This rustic Rabbit, Veal, or Chicken Stew is not just a recipe; it's a nostalgic embrace of home cooking that promises to transport you to a cozy kitchen where every spoonful tells a story of tradition and comfort. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food lover, this recipe will elevate your cooking skills and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 rabbit, cut into pieces
- 1 pound veal or chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup barley
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and cutting meat and vegetables. Pat the meat pieces dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Season the meat pieces generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating on all sides.
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or stew pot over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to coat the bottom.
- Brown the meat pieces in batches, ensuring each piece develops a deep golden-brown crust. This process should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and sliced carrots. Sauté until onions become translucent and slightly caramelized, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Return the browned meat to the pot. Add mixed herbs, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Pour in chicken broth, ensuring meat and vegetables are mostly covered. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer slowly for approximately 1 hour, allowing meat to become tender.
- After one hour, add the barley to the stew. Continue cooking for an additional 35-45 minutes until barley is fully cooked and meat is extremely tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The stew should have a rich, hearty consistency.
- Let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and liquid to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Tips
- Meat Selection: Choose high-quality, fresh meat and don't be afraid to mix proteins for a more complex flavor profile.
- Browning Technique: Take your time when browning the meat. This crucial step develops a deep, rich flavor foundation for your stew.
- Herb Freshness: While dried herbs work well, using fresh herbs can dramatically enhance the overall taste and aroma of the dish.
- Liquid Management: Keep an eye on the liquid level during cooking. If the stew becomes too dry, add a little more broth to maintain moisture.
- Resting Time: Never skip the resting period after cooking. This allows flavors to meld and the stew to reach the perfect consistency.
- Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance for more developed flavors.
- Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or alongside a crisp green salad to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
