Heavenly Chicken Stew with Westmalle Dubbel

By Rutger on January 31, 2025

Introduction

In this recipe you will discover how to prepare a delectable chicken stew, in which the rich flavor of a Westmalle Dubbel beer comes out beautifully. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables and the dark, complex beer creates a true taste sensation. This dish is perfect to serve during a cozy dinner with friends or family. Let's get started!

Ingredients.

800 grams of chicken (for example, drumsticks or chicken thighs)
2 onions, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks of celery, sliced
250 grams of mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons of flour
330 ml Westmalle Dubbel beer
250 ml chicken stock
2 tablespoons tomato puree
2 bay leaves
Fresh thyme and rosemary, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil

Preparation Method

Heat a dash of olive oil in a large casserole over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until translucent. Then add the sliced carrot, celery and mushrooms. Fry everything together until the vegetables have softened slightly.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well so that the flour mixes with the oil and vegetables. This makes for a thicker sauce.
Now add the Westmalle Dubbel beer to the pan and bring to a boil. Simmer the beer for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to develop.
Pour the chicken stock and tomato paste into the pan. Stir everything together well. Add the bay leaves, thyme and rosemary for extra flavor. Season the stew with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken pieces back in the pan, making sure they are completely covered with the sauce. Bring to a boil again, then reduce the heat to low.
Let the chicken stew simmer gently, with the lid on the pan, for about 1.5 hours. This ensures that the chicken becomes deliciously tender and the flavors are well absorbed.
Taste and season further with salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaves and serve the chicken stew warm.

Serving Tip

Serve the heavenly chicken stew with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables or fresh crusty bread to dip the flavorful sauce on. Of course, a glass of Westmalle Dubbel beer goes perfectly with this dish and completes the culinary experience.

Enjoy this delicious dish with a touch of Belgian brewing tradition!