- Why sear dry?
- It's the traditional method. Fat renders from the skin, creating a more intense, 'roasted' flavor than if swimming in oil.
Chakhokhbili: Georgian Chicken Stew
One of Georgian cuisine's most famous stews, named after 'khokhobi' (pheasant), though now made with chicken. The unique technique is 'dry frying': chicken is first browned without fat (or very little) to concentrate flavors in its own juices. Then, the meat simmers in acidic tomato juice with heaps of fresh herbs. A truly rustic flavor bomb.
Ingredients
2
lbs
Chicken Thighs or Legs (bone-in, skin-on)
1
lb
Ripe Tomatoes (peeled, diced) or canned
3
medium
Onions (sliced)
4
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
bunch
Fresh Cilantro (essential!)
1
bunch
Parsley
1
bunch
Dill (optional)
2
tbsp
Butter (for onions)
1
tsp
Khmeli Suneli (Georgian spice mix) or Fenugreek
1
pc
Chili Pepper (to taste)
1
tsp
Salt
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed Pot: For dry searing.
- Cutting Board: For chopping herbs.
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Place chicken pieces in a hot, dry pot (no fat!). Sear over medium heat until fat renders and skin is golden brown. Remove meat when done.
Tip: Don't move it constantly; let it sear. If chicken is lean, add a tiny bit of oil, but its own fat is best.
2
✓
Add butter to the rendered chicken fat and sauté onions until soft.
Tip: Butter adds creaminess to the sauce.
3
✓
Add tomatoes, garlic, and chili. Cook for a few minutes until they release juice.
Tip: Tomato acidity will tenderize the meat.
4
✓
Return chicken, sprinkle with Khmeli Suneli and salt. Cover and simmer on low for 25-30 minutes until tender.
Tip: Do not add water! Tomato and chicken juices should be enough. It's a thick stew.
5
✓
Finally, turn off heat and stir in the heap of chopped herbs (cilantro, parsley).
Tip: Fresh herbs shouldn't be cooked or they lose aroma (essential oils).
6
✓
Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Thighs or Legs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 lb Ripe Tomatoes (peeled, diced) or canned
- 3 medium Onions (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (essential!)
- 1 bunch Parsley
- 1 bunch Dill (optional)
- 2 tbsp Butter (for onions)
- 1 tsp Khmeli Suneli (Georgian spice mix) or Fenugreek
- 1 pc Chili Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Salt