German Frikassee
Tenderly Cooked Meat and Vegetables in a Delicate Gravy
Chicken or veal Frikassee is a cherished German classic, where tenderly cooked meat and vegetables harmoniously mingle in a delicate gravy crafted from the essence of the cooking broth, enriched with a blend of butter and flour. Staying true to the subtlety of European culinary traditions, the original recipe relies solely on salt for seasoning. Nevertheless, we’ve introduced a unique twist by infusing a lemon herb blend, enhancing the aroma of the fresh ingredients in this refined dish.
Asparagus - Green or White
Green and white asparagus are distinct varieties with variations in growing locations, taste, and health benefits. Green asparagus, grown above ground and exposed to sunlight, has a robust flavor with nutty and earthy notes. It is commonly found in regions like the United States and Europe.
On the other hand, white asparagus, cultivated underground to avoid sunlight exposure, has a milder and sweeter taste, often grown in countries like Germany and France.
While both varieties offer nutritional benefits such as antioxidants and vitamins, green asparagus is known for its slightly higher nutrient content, including fiber, folate, and iron, whereas white asparagus is lower in calories and rich in vitamin C. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and the desired culinary experience.
Tips & Tricks
- Recipe Shortcut: Opt for convenience by using leftover chicken or pre-cook your chicken in advance for a time-saving culinary experience.
- Vegetable Pairing Suggestions: Explore a variety of vegetable combinations such as mushrooms and asparagus, or green peas and carrots. Additionally, consider other options like root vegetables such as parsnip or celery root for a diverse and flavorful twist.
- Butter Replacement Options: Opt for a variety of alternatives by substituting cow butter with clarified butter, ghee, coconut oil, or lard for a versatile and flavorful twist.
- Versatile Gravy: Extend the utility of this flavorful gravy beyond the current dish. Consider using it for your upcoming turkey feast, drizzling over steamed vegetables, or enhancing the flavor of pasta for a delightful culinary experience.
- Culinary Tip: Highly recommend not skipping the capers for an enhanced flavor profile. For those seeking a more adventurous taste, consider adding a few anchovy fillets to elevate the dish further.
- Recipe Expansion Tip: Easily scale up the recipe by doubling the ingredients. Once prepared, transfer half of the savory gravy to a separate bowl before introducing the spices to the remaining portion in the pot. Taste both variations – spiced and unspiced – and let us know what you think.
- Customizable Serving Option: If potatoes or rice aren’t your preference, try serving the dish over a head of steamed cauliflower, cauliflower rice, or wide noodles for a versatile and delightful dining experience.
Frikassee Ingredients
Making the Gravy
Frikassee Side Options
German Frikassee
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast [1]
Fresh Produce
- 1 medium onion quartered
- 2 cups small cut vegetables [2]
- 1-3 tbsp lemon juice, to taste
Dairy
- 3 tbsp butter [3]
- 1 egg yolk
Packaged Food/Staples
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour [4]
- 1-2 tbsp dry white wine optional
- 1-3 tsp capers [5] optional
Culinary Spice Kit
- Dill, chives, lemon balm, white pepper, mustard, nutmeg, paprika, tarragon, lemon peel
Suggested Sides
- cooked rice or potatoes
- mashed potatoes
- dumplings or gnocchi
Instructions
Step 1 - Cook Chicken & Vegetables
- In a POT, bring 4 cups of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add chicken, onion, and small-cut vegetables.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Turn off the heat and remove the onion.
- Cut or shred the chicken into half-inch pieces.
- Return the chicken to the pot.
Step 2 - Prepare Sauce
- In a second POT, melt butter over medium heat without browning.
- Gradually add flour and stir constantly until it turns slightly golden.
- Gradually add 3 cups of the chicken stock from step 1, incorporating 0.5 cup at a time. Whisk constantly until well combined with the flour-butter mixture.
- Optionally, add white wine and whisk to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 3 - Finish
- Optionally, add capers to the sauce.
- Add Frikassee spices, and lemon juice and salt to taste.
- In a CUP, whisk the egg yolk with 2 tbsp cold water. Add this to the sauce.
- Add the chicken and small-cut vegetables. Mix well.
- Serve with your preferred side.
Notes
- green peas, carrots, and turnip or celery root
- mushrooms and asparagus (green or white) or cauliflower florets
