Belgium Waterzooi is a traditional Belgian dish originating from Ghent, dating back to medieval times. It's a creamy soup or stew typically made with chicken or fish, simmered with vegetables and herbs, and enriched with heavy cream. This comforting dish is enjoyed both as a main course and a starter, often accompanied by crusty bread.

Waterzooi traces its roots to the Flemish-speaking region of Belgium, specifically Ghent, where it evolved from a fisherman's stew into a beloved regional delicacy. Originally prepared with freshwater fish, it later adapted to include chicken as an alternative protein, reflecting the culinary diversity of the region.

Ingredients:

1. 4 chicken breasts or 4 fillets of fish (cod or haddock)

2. 2 leeks, sliced

3. 3 carrots, diced

4. 2 celery stalks, diced

5. 2 medium onions, diced

6. 2 cloves of garlic, minced

7. 2 tablespoons of butter

8. 1 quart of chicken or fish stock

9. 1 cup of heavy cream

10. 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley

11. 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill

12. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Sauté leeks, carrots, celery, and onions until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken or fish stock, bring to a boil.

5. Reduce heat, add chicken or fish, simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

6. Remove chicken/fish, set aside.

7. Stir in heavy cream, bring to a simmer.

8. Add parsley and dill, stir.

9. Season with salt and pepper.

10. Shred chicken or cut fish into pieces, return to pot.

11. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes:

- Customize with your preferred protein and additional vegetables like potatoes.

- Waterzooi can be made ahead and reheated.

- Adjust consistency with a roux or slurry if desired.

Nutrition Value:

Here's the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients in your list:

1. Chicken breasts (4 breasts, approx. 400g):

• Calories: 920
• Protein: 160g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism.

2. Leeks (2 leeks, approx. 300g):

• Calories: 105
• Protein: 3.6g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4.8g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants like polyphenols, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Good source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood clotting.

3. Carrots (3 carrots, approx. 180g):

• Calories: 70
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 4.8g

benefits:

• High in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and is important for vision, immune function, and skin health.
• Good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

4. Celery (2 stalks, approx. 80g):

• Calories: 15
• Protein: 0.8g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1.6g

benefits:

• Low in calories but high in fiber, making it a great choice for weight management.
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

5. Onions (2 medium onions, approx. 300g):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting digestive health.

6. Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.2g

benefits:

• Contains compounds like allicin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• May help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of heart disease.

7. Butter (2 tablespoons, approx. 28g):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Contains butyrate, a type of fatty acid that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Good source of vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function.

8. Chicken or fish stock (1 quart, approx. 950g):

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Provides electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which are important for hydration and nerve function.
• Contains collagen, which is beneficial for joint health and may improve skin elasticity.

9. Heavy cream (1 cup, approx. 240g):

• Calories: 820
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 88g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• High in calories and fat, which can provide energy and help you feel full.
• Contains vitamins A and D, which are important for bone health and immune function.

10. Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, approx. 8g):

• Calories: 1
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.2g
• Fiber: 0.1g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins K, C, and A, as well as antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

11. Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, approx. 6g):

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.4g
• Fiber: 0.2g

benefits:

• Contains compounds that may help reduce excess gas and aid in digestion.
• Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and manganese.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific ingredients used.

Belgium Waterzooi is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for cold weather. The combination of chicken or fish, vegetables, and cream makes for a satisfying and filling meal.