Slovak Smoked Sausage and Lentil Mash
A rustic and satisfying dish combining tender cooked lentils with flavorful smoked sausage (klobása) and a touch of sour cream, creating a hearty and comforting meal. This is a staple in Slovak homes, especially during colder months.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 750 ml Water or vegetable broth
- 300 g Smoked Slovak sausage (klobása), sliced
- 1 Large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard
- 1 tsp Sweet paprika
- 4 tbsp Sour cream
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the rinsed lentils in a saucepan with the water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
💡 Tip: Lentils should be cooked until tender but not mushy. - 2
While the lentils are cooking, heat the oil or lard in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
💡 Tip: This step renders fat from the sausage, which will be used to sauté the onions and garlic. - 3
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage fat. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Sautéing the onions slowly develops their sweetness. - 4
Stir the sweet paprika into the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add the cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the paprika, as it can become bitter. - 5
Add the browned sausage back into the skillet with the lentil and onion mixture. Stir in the sour cream and mix until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: The sour cream adds a creamy texture and a slight tang that complements the smoky sausage. - 6
Serve the smoked sausage and lentil mash hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
💡 Tip: This dish is often served as a main course, but can also be a hearty side dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a good quality smoked Slovak sausage (klobása) for the best flavor.
- ✓If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash more broth or water.
- ✓For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth, adding extra spices like cumin or coriander.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced potatoes to the lentils during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in some chopped dill or chives for added freshness.
- Serve with a side of pickled cucumbers or a simple green salad.