Café Provençal
Introduction
Café Provençal is a delightful and aromatic dish hailing from the Provence region of France. Known for its rich and varied flavors, the cuisine of Provence is heavily influenced by the local ingredients like tomatoes, olives, garlic, and fresh herbs. This recipe captures the essence of Provençal cooking by combining these traditional elements into a comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.
The history of Provençal cuisine is deeply rooted in the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing natural and fresh ingredients. The techniques used in the preparation are designed to bring out the best in each component, making the dish not only nourishing but also a treat for the senses.
Ingredients
- Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
- Chicken breast - 500g, boneless and skinless
- Onion - 1 large, thinly sliced
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes - 4, diced
- Olives - 100g, pitted and sliced
- Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried
- Rosemary - 1 sprig, fresh
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- White wine - 100ml
- Chicken broth - 250ml
- Basil - fresh leaves, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the chicken breast is thoroughly cleaned and sliced into thin strips. Dice the tomatoes and thinly slice the onion. Mince the garlic and slice the olives.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, sliced olives, thyme, and the sprig of rosemary. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Simmering the Dish
Pour in the white wine and simmer for about 2 minutes to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Add the chicken broth and return the cooked chicken breast to the skillet. Lower the heat and let the dish simmer for 15-20 minutes. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the simmering moment.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish the Café Provençal with fresh basil leaves and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty French bread or a side of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a complete Provençal experience, pair this dish with a glass of chilled white wine, which complements the flavors perfectly. Enjoy your meal and savor the tastes of southern France right at your table!