Pollo a la Secretaria (Secretary’s Chicken)
Pollo a la Secretaria is a traditional dish from Alcalá la Real, a town in the Andalusian region of Jaén, Spain. Its origins date back to the 1920s when a group of friends gathered to prepare a chicken and rice stew but realized they had no rice. The secretary's wife suggested serving the stew as it was, and the dish became a hallmark of the town's cuisine. This flavorful summer stew is a testament to...
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Ingredients
large free-range chicken1- glass olive oil2
bay leaves2sprigs
large onions2
garlic6clove
glass white wine1
chicken livers2
canned roasted red peppers250g
canned peas150g
fresh tomatoes500g
Serrano ham150g
ground black pepper2tsp
packet yellow food coloring2
saffron threads1pinch- salt1dash
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
75.0kcal (3.75%)
Protein
5.8g (11.66%)
Carbs
8.3g (3.03%)
Sugars
3.3g (6.66%)
Healthy Fat
1.7g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Pollo a la Secretaria (Secretary’s Chicken)
- Step 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the Serrano ham, cut into small pieces.
- Step 2
Add the chicken, cut into pieces, along with the bay leaves, ground black pepper, and salt. Fry the chicken until golden.
- Step 3
Once the chicken is fried, pour in the white wine and let it reduce.
- Step 4
Separately, sauté the garlic, chopped onions, chicken livers, half of the peas, and half of the roasted red peppers. Cook until everything is softened and the livers are fried.
- Step 5
Remove the livers and blend them together with the saffron threads. Add this mixture back to the stew along with a splash of water and the crushed fresh tomatoes.
- Step 6
Let everything simmer until the chicken is tender and the sauce has reduced.
- Step 7
Finally, add the remaining peas and the rest of the roasted red peppers, chopped into pieces. Stir well and serve.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
75.0kcal (3.75%)
Protein
5.8g (11.66%)
Carbs
8.3g (3.03%)
Sugars
3.3g (6.66%)
Healthy Fat
1.7g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of saffron threads to your preference for a richer aroma.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the stew for a longer time.
For added depth, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and spices for a few hours before cooking.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of meat?
While the traditional recipe uses chicken, you can substitute it with turkey or rabbit for a different flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pollo a la Secretaria pairs well with crusty bread, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew a day in advance. The flavors will deepen as it rests.
Is saffron necessary?
Saffron adds a unique aroma and color, but you can substitute it with turmeric if unavailable.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
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