The Browned Chicken in Crisco Sauce recipe exemplifies the culinary traditions of utilizing simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Drawing inspiration from classic cooking techniques, this recipe brings out the best in chicken by browning it to perfection and crafting a savory sauce that enhances its natural flavors. This dish embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort while showcasing the art of mastering foundational cooking methods. As we explore this recipe, we’ll delve into its historical context, uncover the techniques of browning and simmering, and guide you through the process of creating this satisfying and wholesome meal.

Browning meats and creating flavorful sauces have been essential culinary techniques for generations. This recipe draws from the tradition of browning chicken to create depth of flavor and then crafting a sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. In earlier times, cooking was about making the most of simple ingredients, allowing them to shine through careful preparation. This recipe is a testament to the skills of home cooks who relied on their intuition and knowledge to create delicious and comforting meals.

INGREDIENTS

• Chicken (whole, jointed)
• 4 tablespoons Crisco (shortening)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 pint boiling water or stock
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon onion juice
• Black pepper
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Draw, singe, and joint the chicken to your preferred size and pieces.
2. Brown the Chicken:
   • In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of Crisco over medium heat until it turns brown and has a rich aroma.
   • Add the jointed chicken pieces to the hot Crisco. Stir and cook until every piece is evenly browned and sealed.
3. Create the Base:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the browned chicken. Stir the flour into the chicken and Crisco mixture to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
4. Add Boiling Liquid:
   • Pour in 1 pint of boiling water or stock, stirring continuously to incorporate the liquid and roux.
5. Season and Simmer:
   • Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the mixture and stir well.
   • Cover the saucepan and allow the chicken to simmer gently until it becomes tender.
6. Enhance the Flavors:
   • Once the chicken is tender, add 1 teaspoon of onion juice and a little black pepper to the sauce. Stir to incorporate these flavors.
7. Arrange and Garnish:
   • Place the neck-piece, heart, liver, gizzard, and back pieces in the center of a serving dish.
   • Arrange 2 pieces of breast on top of the center pieces.
   • Place the second joints on one side of the plate and cross the legs on the other side.
   • Position a wing at each end of the plate.
8. Pour Sauce and Garnish:
   • Pour the prepared sauce over the arranged chicken pieces.
   • Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
9. Serve:
   • The Browned Chicken in Crisco Sauce is now ready to be served as a satisfying and flavorful meal.

NOTES:

• This recipe captures the essence of traditional home cooking, where careful techniques were used to create dishes that nourished both body and soul. The Browned Chicken in Crisco Sauce showcases the mastery of browning, simmering, and crafting a flavorful sauce, resulting in a dish that’s a testament to the culinary wisdom passed down through generations.