Krambambula Stew
A rich and warming stew, often made with pork or beef, flavored with traditional Belarusian spices and a hint of Krambambula liqueur, served with hearty bread or dumplings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder or beef chuck(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 750 ml Beef broth or water
- 50 ml Krambambula liqueur(optional, but traditional)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 Bay leaves
- 5 Allspice berries
- 4 Juniper berries(lightly crushed)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard(for searing)
- for garnish Fresh parsley(chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the meat helps it sear better. - 2
Heat oil or lard in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the meat in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the pot, as this will steam the meat instead of searing it. - 3
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- 4
Add the carrots and minced garlic, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- 6
Return the seared meat to the pot. Add the beef broth (or water), Krambambula liqueur (if using), bay leaves, allspice berries, and crushed juniper berries.
💡 Tip: If not using Krambambula, a dark rum or brandy can be a substitute, or omit entirely. - 7
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
💡 Tip: Check periodically and add more liquid if needed. - 8
Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and whole spices before serving.
💡 Tip: For a thicker stew, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking, or thicken with a cornstarch slurry. - 9
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This stew is excellent with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or simple boiled dumplings.
💡 Tip: A dollop of sour cream can also be a nice addition.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The longer the stew simmers, the more tender and flavorful the meat will become.
- ✓Using a combination of spices like juniper, allspice, and bay leaves is key to the authentic Belarusian flavor profile.
- ✓Krambambula liqueur adds a unique depth and subtle sweetness; if unavailable, consider a spiced liqueur or a splash of red wine.
🔄 Variations
- Add root vegetables like parsnips or turnips along with the carrots.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve over buckwheat kasha for a traditional pairing.