Chepino: Philadelphia Life Magazine Recipe

Philadelphia Life Magazine presents this signature preparation of Chepino. Handcrafted with traditional culinary care, this dish pairs authentic regional flavors with seasonal farm produce.

Recipe Overview & Technique

Ingredients

• 1 (4-pound) fowl
• 2 quarts water
• Few stalks celery
• 1 onion (for simmering fowl)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste (for simmering fowl)
• 2 small cans ripe olives, sliced
• ½ pound mushrooms, sliced
• 1 package elbow macaroni
• ½ pound shredded American cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion (for sauce)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups tomato juice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt to taste (for sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1. **Prep & Sauté:** Press the **Sauté** button on your Instant Pot (set to Normal/Medium). Add cooking oil and sear your meat/aromatics for 4-5 minutes until browned.
2. 2. **Deglaze (Crucial to Prevent ‘Burn’ Error):** Pour in 1/2 cup of broth or cooking liquid. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of the inner pot.
3. 3. **Layer Ingredients:** Add remaining ingredients and at least 1 cup of thin liquid. *(Note: Reserve dairy and thickeners for after cooking)*
4. 4. **Pressure Cook:** Secure the lid and turn the steam release valve to **Sealing**. Select **Pressure Cook / Manual (High)** and set the timer for **52 minutes**.
5. 5. **Pressure Release:** When the timer beeps, perform a **10 to 15-Minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then Quick Release remaining steam**.
6. 6. **Finish & Thicken:** Unlock the lid. Press **Sauté** again. Stir in reserved cream/cheese and cornstarch slurry. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until rich and thickened to your desired texture.