Lithuanian Buckwheat Porridge with Mushrooms and Pork
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining nutty buckwheat groats with earthy mushrooms and savory pork, a staple in Lithuanian home cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Buckwheat groats (kasha)
- 400 g Pork shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 300 g Mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake)(sliced)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 cups Vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Butter or oil
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the buckwheat groats under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Rinsing removes excess starch and any potential bitterness. - 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter or oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes on all sides. Remove pork and set aside.
- 3
Add the chopped onion to the same pot and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- 5
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the rinsed buckwheat groats, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are well distributed. - 6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the buckwheat is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
💡 Tip: Avoid stirring too much during cooking to prevent the buckwheat from becoming mushy. - 7
Once cooked, let the porridge rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes off the heat. Fluff with a fork.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill or parsley.
💡 Tip: A dollop of sour cream is a traditional accompaniment.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use good quality buckwheat for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Don't overcook the buckwheat, as it can become mushy.
- ✓Feel free to add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrients.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pork and use vegetable broth. Add more mushrooms or other vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
- Add a bay leaf during simmering for an extra layer of aroma.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of tomato paste with the onions and garlic for a richer flavor.