Moravian Sparrow
Moravský Vrabec
Moravský Vrabec, translating to 'Moravian Sparrow', is a hearty and flavorful Czech dish originating from the Moravia region. It features tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder stewed in a rich, savory gravy, typically served with fluffy bread dumplings (houskové knedlíky). Despite its name, it contains no bird meat; the 'sparrow' refers to the small, bite-sized pieces of pork.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Pork shoulder(cut into 2-3 cm cubes)
- 2 medium, finely chopped Onions
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 tbsp Lard or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Caraway seeds
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 500 ml Beef or pork broth
- 1 tsp, or to taste Salt
- 0.5 tsp, or to taste Black pepper
- 1 tsp, dried Marjoram
- 4 servings, for serving Bread dumplings (houskové knedlíky)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat lard or oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the fat is hot before adding the pork for a good sear. - 2
Add the pork cubes and sear them on all sides until browned. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot.
💡 Tip: Browning the meat develops flavor and color for the final dish. - 3
Remove the browned pork from the pot and set aside.
💡 Tip: Keep the rendered fat in the pot. - 4
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly golden.
💡 Tip: Low and slow cooking of onions builds a sweet flavor base. - 5
Add the minced garlic and caraway seeds and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 6
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux.
💡 Tip: This helps to thicken the sauce. - 7
Gradually whisk in the beef or pork broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
💡 Tip: Whisking prevents lumps from forming. - 8
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add salt, pepper, and marjoram.
💡 Tip: Season generously, as the pork will absorb the flavors. - 9
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for at least 2 hours, or until the pork is very tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the stew becomes too dry. - 10
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
💡 Tip: The sauce should be rich and savory. - 11
Serve hot, spooned over bread dumplings.
💡 Tip: The dumplings are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the onions.
- ✓If you don't have bread dumplings, boiled potatoes or mashed potatoes are also good accompaniments.
- ✓This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats well.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced root vegetables like carrots or parsnips during the last hour of cooking.
- A splash of dark beer can be added to the broth for deeper flavor.