How to Make Spanish Pollo a la Cerveza: Chicken with Beer

How to Make Spanish Pollo a la Cerveza: Chicken with Beer

• 1. What is Pollo a la Cerveza?
• 2. Ingredients for Pollo a la Cerveza
• 3. Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Pollo a la Cerveza
• 4. Tips for Perfect Pollo a la Cerveza
• 5. Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
• 6. Real-Life Story: A Family Favorite Dish

1. What is Pollo a la Cerveza?

Pollo a la Cerveza, or "chicken with beer," is a flavorful Spanish dish that combines tender chicken with the rich, malty taste of beer. The dish is known for its simplicity and savory flavor profile, making it a popular choice for both family dinners and special occasions. The beer not only helps tenderize the chicken but also infuses the meat with a delicious depth of flavor. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little Spanish flair to their cooking.

Cacique Restaurant

FrederickFrederick CountyMaryland

26 N Market St, Frederick, MD 21701, USA

2. Ingredients for Pollo a la Cerveza

To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can or bottle of your favorite beer (lager or pale ale works well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

This simple list of ingredients allows for a balanced combination of flavors that complements the chicken perfectly, with the beer providing a unique twist to the dish.

Condado

Kings CountyNew York

444 Mother Gaston Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11212, USA

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Pollo a la Cerveza

Follow these steps to make a delicious batch of Pollo a la Cerveza:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the spices.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Push the onion and garlic to the side of the pan, and place the chicken pieces skin-side down in the pan. Sear the chicken until the skin turns golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. Add the Beer: Pour the beer into the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the beer to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the pan, skin-side up, and cover it with the beer mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Serve the chicken with the beer sauce from the pan poured over the top.

This method ensures the chicken is flavorful, tender, and juicy, with the beer sauce providing a rich accompaniment.

4. Tips for Perfect Pollo a la Cerveza

Here are a few tips to ensure your Pollo a la Cerveza turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken: The skin adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy while it cooks. Bone-in chicken also adds more depth to the flavor.
• Choose the Right Beer: A lager or pale ale works best for this recipe. Avoid overly bitter or dark beers, as they can overpower the dish.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
• Serve with a Side: Pollo a la Cerveza pairs wonderfully with rice, potatoes, or even a simple green salad. You can also add some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful beer sauce.

5. Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas

Pollo a la Cerveza is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Rice: A side of white or brown rice is perfect for soaking up the beer sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers complement the richness of the chicken.
• Beer Pairing: Pair the dish with the same beer used in the recipe for a consistent flavor experience. A light lager or pale ale is an excellent choice.
• Fresh Salad: A fresh, citrusy salad with arugula or mixed greens helps balance the richness of the chicken.

6. Real-Life Story: A Family Favorite Dish

For Maria, Pollo a la Cerveza is more than just a meal; it’s a family tradition passed down through generations. Growing up in Spain, her grandmother would make this dish every Sunday for the family. The aroma of the chicken simmering with beer would fill the house, signaling the start of a joyful gathering.

Today, Maria continues the tradition, and her children love it just as much as she did when she was young. This simple, flavorful dish brings her family together, creating lasting memories with every bite.