Tierra Madrileña

Tierra Madrileña is a classic Spanish dish deeply rooted in the vibrant culinary traditions of Madrid. With its rich, rustic flavors, this dish captures the essence of countryside dining in Spain's capital region. Traditionally served during festive occasions, Tierra Madrileña brings together hearty ingredients that are both comforting and delicious. The origins of Tierra Madrileña can be traced back to the rural heartlands surrounding Madrid, where locally sourced produce forms the core of this dish.

Ingredients

• Chicken - 1 whole, cut into pieces
• Chorizo - 200g, sliced
• Potatoes - 4 large, peeled and diced
• Smoked Paprika - 2 teaspoons
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil - 4 tablespoons
• Red Wine - 1/2 cup
• Rosemary - 2 sprigs
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Bell Pepper - 1, diced
• Tomato - 3, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Bay Leaf - 1

Preparation

Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water, pat it dry with paper towels, and cut it into pieces. Slice the chorizo into thin rounds. Peel and dice the potatoes. Chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic cloves. Chop the tomatoes into small cubes.

Step 2: Marination

In a large bowl, mix chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all pieces are well-coated and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for the chicken to absorb the smokey flavors of the smoked paprika.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Add the bell pepper and continue to cook for another few minutes. Next, stir in the tomatoes, along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let the mixture cook until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

In a separate large pot, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 5: Building the Stew

Add the browned chicken, sautéed vegetables, and chorizo to the large pot. Pour in the red wine and add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Cooking Time

Cook the stew over low heat, covered, for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You can check the time using a cooking timer.

Serving and Enjoyment

Serve Tierra Madrileña hot with a side of crusty bread. The hearty flavors of the chicken, aromatic chorizo, and vegetables make for a delightful meal that's perfect for family gatherings or enjoying on a chilly evening. Pair with a glass of Spanish red wine to enhance the dining experience and enjoy the authentic taste of Madrid's countryside.