Kiseli Kupus sa Suvim Mesom (Bosnian Pickled Cabbage with Smoked Meat)
A hearty and flavorful winter stew made with pickled cabbage (sauerkraut) and various types of smoked or cured meats, such as pork ribs, bacon, and dried beef. It's a comforting dish that showcases the rich flavors of Balkan preserved ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 large head Pickled cabbage (Kiseli Kupus)(rinsed and roughly chopped)
- 500 g Smoked pork ribs(cut into pieces)
- 150 g Smoked bacon(sliced thick)
- 100 g Dried smoked beef (Suvo Meso)(sliced)
- 2 medium Onions(diced)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Paprika (aleva)
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste, depending on saltiness of cabbage and meat)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Whole peppercorns
- 2 Bay leaves
- 3 cups Water(or as needed)
- 2 tbsp Vegeta (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the pickled cabbage thoroughly under cold water. Chop it into large pieces. Place the chopped cabbage in a large bowl, cover with fresh water, and soak for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator) to reduce saltiness and sourness. Drain well.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the paprika, salt, black pepper, whole peppercorns, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4
Add the drained pickled cabbage, smoked pork ribs, bacon, and dried smoked beef to the pot. Stir to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
- 5
Pour in 3 cups of water (or enough to mostly cover the ingredients). If using Vegeta, stir it in now. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the meats are cooked through and falling apart. Stir occasionally, adding more water if the stew becomes too dry.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, traditionally with cornbread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The soaking time for the pickled cabbage is crucial to balance the flavors.
- ✓Use good quality smoked meats for the best flavor.
- ✓If you can't find dried smoked beef, you can omit it or use more bacon or smoked ribs.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes use fresh pork shoulder or beef instead of smoked meats, but the smoked flavor is traditional.
- A tablespoon of tomato paste can be added for a richer sauce.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.