Chicken Goulash

In a large, heavy pot, heat the oil over moderately high heat. Season the chicken with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and add it to the pan. Cook the chicken until browned, turning, about 8 minutes in all. Remove. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat from the pan.

Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pan. Reduce the heat to moderate and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Reduce the heat to moderately low and add the paprika, flour, and cayenne to the pan. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Stir in the broth, tomatoes, the remaining 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, the thyme, and the bay leaf. Add the chicken and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until the chicken is done, about 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and add the parsley and black pepper.

Menu Suggestions: Serve the goulash with spaetzle, buttered noodles, or boiled or mashed potatoes.

Wine Recommendation: With this dish, it's natural to experiment with one of the increasing number of reds imported from Hungary. Try Egri Bikavér or a varietal such as a merlot or a cabernet sauvignon.