Leskovac Mućkalica
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from Leskovac, traditionally made with pork, peppers, tomatoes, and onions, often served with a side of ajvar or kajmak.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder(cut into 2-3 cm cubes)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 large Red bell peppers(seeded and chopped)
- 2 large Green bell peppers(seeded and chopped)
- 800 g Tomatoes(canned crushed or fresh, chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard
- 1 tbsp Paprika(sweet)
- 1 tsp Hot pepper flakes(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish chopped Fresh parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat oil or lard in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- 2
Brown the pork cubes on all sides. Remove pork from the pot and set aside.
- 3
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers. Cook until they begin to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- 6
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sweet paprika, and hot pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- 7
Return the browned pork to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.
- 8
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the pork is very tender. Stir occasionally.
- 9
If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to allow it to reduce.
- 10
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use lard instead of vegetable oil.
- ✓You can add a splash of red wine during the simmering stage for added depth.
- ✓Adjust the amount of hot pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- ✓This dish is excellent served with a dollop of kajmak or a side of ajvar.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add cubed potatoes or carrots during the last 30-40 minutes of simmering.
- Substitute pork with beef or a mix of pork and beef.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika.