Selsko Meso (Village Meat)
Selsko Meso is a traditional Macedonian dish featuring tender pieces of pork or veal slow-cooked in a rich, savory sauce, often with mushrooms and onions, and traditionally baked in a clay pot. It's a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for family gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder or Veal(cut into 2-3 cm cubes)
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 300 g Mushrooms(sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Vegeta (optional)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 150 ml Red wine(optional)
- 200 ml Water or Broth(or as needed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
💡 Tip: If using a traditional clay pot (sach), ensure it's oven-safe. - 2
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the meat and set aside.
- 3
Add the sliced onions to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- 5
Return the browned meat to the pot. Stir in the paprika, Vegeta (if using), salt, and pepper.
- 6
If using red wine, pour it in and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
- 7
Add the water or broth, ensuring the liquid comes about halfway up the meat and vegetables. Stir everything together.
- 8
Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for at least 2 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
💡 Tip: Check occasionally and add a little more liquid if it seems too dry. - 9
Once the meat is tender, remove from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Tip: Selsko Meso is best served hot, often with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic touch, use a traditional Macedonian clay pot (sach) if available.
- ✓Ensure the meat is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- ✓Don't rush the slow cooking process; tenderness is key to this dish.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced carrots or bell peppers along with the onions.
- A tablespoon of tomato paste can be added for a richer sauce.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.