Authentic Slow Cooker Chilindrón: Spanish Lamb, Chicken, and Chorizo Stew Recipe

A Mallorcan Memory I Can't Forget

Hey there, fellow food lovers! So, on my last trip to Mallorca, I stumbled upon this hidden gem—a cozy, family-run restaurant tucked away in a tiny village. It wasn't the typical tourist spot; it was where the locals went. And let me tell you, I had the most unforgettable dish there: Chilindrón. Paired with fragrant saffron rice, every bite was like a warm hug and a story of the island's rich traditions. I just knew I had to bring this Spanish flavour back home and share it with you all. If you're like me and love discovering authentic flavours from your travels, then you're in for a treat. Let's recreate that Mallorcan culinary magic together in our kitchens. Ready to dive into Spanish culinary heritage? Let's dive in!

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Savoury Spanish stew: A taste of Mallorca in every bite!

The Charming Tale of Chilindrón: From Humble Beginnings to Culinary Stardom

Origins: The Birth of Chilindrón

Chilindrón finds its roots in the Aragón region of Spain, a land known for its rich history and diverse culinary influences. The name "Chilindrón" is believed to be derived from the Spanish word "chillón," which means "noisy." This could be a nod to the lively and bustling environment in which the dish was traditionally prepared, with families and friends coming together.

Key Ingredients: The Heart of the Dish

At its core, Chilindrón is a hearty stew made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. The choice of meat can vary, but chicken and lamb are among the most popular. The dish's signature red hue comes from the red bell peppers and tomatoes, which are simmered to perfection.

Variations: A Dish that Transcends Borders

• Navarre's Touch: In the neighbouring region of Navarre, Chilindrón is often prepared with a touch of white wine, adding depth and richness to the stew.

• Basque Influence: The Basque Country, known for its culinary innovations, sometimes adds a hint of spice to the Chilindrón, introducing a kick that contrasts beautifully with the dish's natural sweetness.

• Modern Twists: Today's chefs, always eager to innovate, have introduced variations like adding chorizo for an extra layer of flavour or using seafood instead of traditional meats.

Pairings: Enhancing the Chilindrón Experience

While Chilindrón is a star on its own, it's often paired with sides that complement its rich flavours. Saffron rice, as you experienced, is a popular choice, but it's also commonly served with crusty bread or even potatoes.

Chilindrón Today: A Symbol of Spanish Heritage

Today, Chilindrón is not just a dish; it's a celebration of Spanish heritage, a testament to the country's rich culinary tapestry. Whether it's enjoyed in a small family-run restaurant in Mallorca or a bustling eatery in Madrid, the essence of Chilindrón remains the same—a heart-warming dish that brings people together.

Comprehensive Guide to Preparing Authentic Spanish Chilindrón

Equipment:

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Preparation details:

Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Cooking Time: 3-4 on high setting, 6-8 hours on the low setting (or overnight)

Number of Portions: 6-8

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chilindrón:

• 500g (1.1 lbs) of chicken pieces (bone-in and skin on pieces like thighs or drumsticks)

• 500g (1.1 lbs) of lamb or beef pieces (like shoulder chunks)

• 200g (7 oz) chorizo sausage, sliced into rounds (iberico is the best)

• 4 large red bell peppers, deseeded and sliced

• 2 large green bell peppers, deseeded and sliced

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced

• 8 ripe medium tomatoes, chopped (800g)

• 8 garlic cloves, minced

• 240ml (1 cup) white wine

• 4 bay leaves

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• 3tsp of salt

• black pepper, generous amount

• 4 tsp paprika

• 200ml stock or broth (meat or vegetable)

• Jar of Guindillas, pickled chilli for garnish

Aromatic Chilindrón , filling the home with its enticing aroma!

How to prepare Slow Cooker Chilindrón:

1. Browning the Meat: In a large skillet over high heat, add 2 tbsp of the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken, lamb pieces, and chorizo slices. Brown them on all sides (you might need to do this in few batches). Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.

3. Slow Cooker Layering: On top of the meat and onions in the slow cooker, add the sliced red and green bell peppers, chopped tomatoes, and bay leaves. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.

4. Deglazing the Skillet: Pour the white wine into the skillet and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.

5. Cooking: Add stock, the vegetables will release moisture as they cook. Cover and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours or high setting for 3-4 hours (or until the meats are tender and flavours melded).

6. Final Adjustments: Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you desire a thicker sauce, you can thicken it with cornflour mixed with water.

7. Serving: Serve the Chilindrón with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with pickled chilli's for extra kick, enjoy your slow-cooked Chilindrón!

Close-up of Chilindrón stew, revealing its rich details as it simmers in the slow cooker.

FAQs about Chilindrón

1. What kind of meat works best for Chilindrón?

While the traditional Chilindrón uses lamb or chicken, you can also use pork or beef. The slow cooking process ensures that tougher meats become tender and flavourful.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the meat with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or mushrooms. Chickpeas or lentils can also be added for protein.

3. How can I store leftover Chilindrón?

Chilindrón can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

4. What can I serve with Chilindrón besides saffron rice?

Crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad work wonderfully with Chilindrón.

5. Can I make Chilindrón ahead of time?

Yes, Chilindrón's flavours often deepen and improve after a day, making it a great dish to prepare in advance.

From the Chef

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Street in Mallorca leading to a local restaurant serving Chilindrón.

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