Gizzard stew: A flavorful, budget-friendly beef alternative

Gizzards, though not as popular as traditional beef, hold a special place in the kitchen. They are an inexpensive product, rich in protein, and excellent for braising, making them ideal for stew preparation. With proper preparation, their tender structure impresses with its softness, and the taste of gizzards pairs excellently with aromatic spices. Additionally, this dish is easy to make and more budget-friendly than beef stew.

Although chicken gizzards rarely catch our eye at the butcher shop, it’s a good choice to pick up this ingredient for a delicious stew. It is an economical and tasty alternative to beef, and also a way to introduce new flavors into the kitchen.

Ingredients:

                            
• 1.5 pounds of chicken gizzards
• 1 onion
• 2 carrots
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)
• 2 cups of broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 allspice berries
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Gizzards are an excellent choice for braised dishes because, after prolonged cooking, they become soft and tender. Their robust flavor pairs well with rich spices and vegetables. Additionally, they are much cheaper than beef, and the stew made from them is just as delicious and filling.

Preparation:

1. Wash the gizzards thoroughly and cut them into smaller pieces. In a pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic in heated oil, then add gizzards and fry for a few minutes. Add chopped carrots and bell pepper, and braise for a few more minutes.
2. Next, add sweet and hot paprika, bay leaves, allspice, and tomato paste. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, and simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours until the gizzards are tender.
3. You can thicken the stew with flour dissolved in cold water if it is too thin. Season with salt and pepper and serve sprinkled with parsley.

Gizzard stew is a tasty, healthy, and economical alternative to traditional meats. Chicken gizzards are rich in protein and also contain vitamins and minerals beneficial for health. After long braising, they become exceptionally tender, and their robust flavor makes the stew deeply aromatic. This dish is excellent for cooler days, served with groats, rice, potatoes, or noodles.

Additional Tips:

• If you want the gizzards to be even more tender, you can marinate them beforehand in a little vinegar and spices.
• Like many braised dishes, gizzard stew tastes even better the next day. You can also freeze it and reheat it at your convenience.