Smothered Chicken (Poulet Braise)

Clean a chicken and split down the back. Dredge with salt and pepper. Put a tablespoonful of lard into the frying pan, and when it is hot, add the chicken. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, then add a half cup of water. Set back on the stove, and let it simmer gently and steadily for about an hour.