Indulge in the rich flavors of the Ottoman Empire with this Chicken Sultan Kebab, a savory pie that encapsulates the essence of traditional Turkish cuisine with a modern twist. Each bite of this dish offers a symphony of textures and tastes, from the tender chicken enveloped in vibrant vegetables to the creamy, silky smoothness of the béchamel sauce, all encased within crisp, buttery phyllo pastry.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply spice up your weekday meal routine, this Chicken Sultan Kebab is your passport to a culinary adventure. Not only does it make a stunning centerpiece, but it also provides a satisfying, hearty meal that combines convenience with luxury, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 600g chicken fillet, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 1 tbsp mixed tomato and pepper paste
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup boiled peas
- Spices: 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp salt
- 4-5 sheets of phyllo pastry
- For Bechamel Sauce:
- 2.5 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 liter milk
- Black pepper and salt to taste
- Topping:
- Grated cheddar cheese
- Directions:
- Cook onions, carrots, garlic, and bell peppers until tender.
- Add chicken, tomato paste, tomatoes, peas, and spices. Cook until chicken is fully cooked.
- For the bechamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour and gradually add milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Layer phyllo pastry in a greased baking dish. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the pastry. Pour half of the bechamel sauce over the chicken. Repeat layers, then top with additional pastry sheets and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Culinary Techniques and Tips
- Phyllo Pastry Handling: Phyllo pastry can dry out quickly, so it’s essential to keep it covered with a damp cloth when you’re not working with it. This will prevent it from becoming brittle and difficult to handle.
- Layering for Success: For an extra flaky crust, brush each layer of phyllo with melted butter before adding the next layer. This technique encourages the layers to puff up and become golden as they bake.
- Richness of Béchamel: The béchamel sauce is what sets this dish apart, providing a creamy, velvety layer that binds the chicken and vegetables together. For the best flavor, cook the roux until it’s golden before adding the milk, and season well.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
The Chicken Sultan Kebab is a versatile dish that can be served in several ways:
- As a Main Course: Serve it with a side of aromatic basmati rice or a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness of the kebab.
- In Smaller Portions: Cut into smaller pieces for a splendid party appetizer or a delightful addition to a buffet table.
- Pairing with Beverages: This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light red, such as Pinot Noir, which complements the hearty flavors without overwhelming them.
Nutritional Profile
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables add dietary fiber and a range of vitamins, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. However, mindful eating is recommended due to the rich béchamel sauce and phyllo pastry, which add to the calorie count.
Make Ahead
The Chicken Sultan Kebab is an excellent choice for meal prepping as it can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Simply bake it just before you’re ready to serve to ensure the pastry is crisp and golden.
By incorporating the Chicken Sultan Kebab into your culinary repertoire, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating an experience. This dish doesn’t just feed the body; it delights the senses and brings people together, making it much more than just food. It’s a celebration of history, culture, and the enduring power of sharing a meal.
Mastering the Art of Chicken Sultan Kebab
Seasoning and Spice Blends: The secret to an authentic Chicken Sultan Kebab lies in its spice blend. Black pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano form the core of the spice mix, but adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can provide an unexpected warmth and depth. Turkish cuisine often employs spices to not only flavor but also to color dishes, and experimenting with turmeric or paprika could add both vibrant hues and subtle layers of taste to your kebab.
Balancing Flavors and Textures: Achieving the right balance of flavors and textures is crucial in dishes like the Sultan Kebab, where multiple components must harmonize. The sweetness of the carrots and the tanginess of the tomatoes should complement the savory chicken, while the textural contrast between the crispy pastry and the creamy filling makes each bite satisfying. Consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softer elements of the filling