Ragoux
A hearty chicken and meatball stew infused with cloves and savory flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put heat on medium-low and add chopped onion, margarine, and cloves. Cook until onions are golden brown.
- While onions are cooking, prepare the meatballs by rolling ground meat into balls and coating them in flour.
- Brown the meatballs in a pan, then drain on paper towels.
- Once the chicken is golden brown, add enough water to cover the chicken and bring to a boil.
- Add the chicken flavored cubes to the boiling water.
- Increase heat to medium-high until the water boils for 5 minutes, then reduce to medium-low, ensuring the water doesn't evaporate.
- Add the browned and drained meatballs to the pot.
- Add additional water as needed to maintain the level.
- Simmer the stew for approximately 3 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stew. If margarine isn't available, you can substitute with butter or olive oil. You can also use pre-made meatballs for convenience. Adjust the amount of flour based on your desired thickness. To add a kick, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ragoux hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice, making it a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables. This dish could also complement recipes like Southern Chicken Casserole beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. You can also use a microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ragoux contains roughly 903 calories, with 11g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1032mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use any ground meat you prefer, such as turkey, pork, or chicken. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, so choose based on your taste preference. Additionally, you can mix different meats for a unique flavor profile.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. Additionally, the meat should be no longer pink and juices should run clear when pierced.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ragoux can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving. This also makes it a great option for meal prepping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).