Bulgarian Pork and Sauerkraut with Smoked Paprika
A deeply flavorful and comforting stew combining tender pork shoulder with tangy sauerkraut, aromatic onions, and the distinctive smoky depth of Bulgarian sweet red pepper paste (lyutenitsa) and smoked paprika. This dish is a staple in Bulgarian winter cuisine.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 Large onions, chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp Bulgarian sweet red pepper paste (lyutenitsa)
- 2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Sweet paprika
- 1 tsp Caraway seeds, lightly crushed
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 500 ml Pork broth or water
- 800 g Sauerkraut, drained and roughly chopped
- 1 Bay leaf
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Pat the pork cubes dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
๐ก Tip: Drying the pork helps it brown better. - 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Browning in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures a good sear. - 3
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Caramelizing the onions adds sweetness and depth to the stew. - 4
Add the minced garlic, Bulgarian sweet red pepper paste, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Toasting the spices and pepper paste briefly enhances their flavor. - 5
Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
๐ก Tip: This helps to thicken the stew later. - 6
Gradually whisk in the pork broth or water, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
๐ก Tip: Adding liquid slowly helps create a smooth sauce. - 7
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the chopped sauerkraut and the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the liquid mostly covers the pork and sauerkraut; add more broth or water if needed. - 8
Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot. Reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 2 hours, or until the pork is very tender. Stir occasionally.
๐ก Tip: Low and slow cooking is essential for tender pork. - 9
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The sauerkraut will add saltiness, so season carefully.
๐ก Tip: The stew can be made a day ahead; flavors often improve overnight. - 10
Serve hot, often with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crusty bread.
๐ก Tip: This dish pairs well with a robust red wine.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf you can't find Bulgarian sweet red pepper paste (lyutenitsa), you can substitute with a good quality roasted red pepper spread and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
- โRinse the sauerkraut if it's too sour for your liking, but draining it well is important.
- โFor an even richer flavor, add a smoked pork hock or a piece of smoked bacon during the simmering process.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced apples or pears during the last hour of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips along with the onions.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili pepper.