Slovenska Jota s Klobaso
A hearty and rustic stew from the Slovenian coast and Karst region, Jota is a flavorful combination of sauerkraut, beans, potatoes, and smoked sausage. It's a warming and satisfying dish, perfect for colder weather.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1 kg Sauerkraut, drained and roughly chopped
- 250 g Dried cannellini beans or other white beans, soaked overnight
- 500 g Potatoes, peeled and diced
- 300 g Smoked pork sausage (e.g., Kranjska klobasa or similar), sliced
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium Carrot, diced
- 2 tbsp Pork fat or oil
- 1.5 liters Water or vegetable broth
- 1 Bay leaf
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp Marjoram (optional)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Cook the soaked beans in fresh water until tender, about 1-1.5 hours. Drain and set aside, reserving some of the cooking liquid.
๐ก Tip: Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves digestibility. - 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the pork fat or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrot and sautรฉ until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Building a flavor base with aromatics is key to a rich stew. - 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 4
Add the chopped sauerkraut, diced potatoes, cooked beans, sliced sausage, and bay leaf to the pot. Pour in the water or broth, ensuring everything is submerged.
๐ก Tip: Using a combination of water and reserved bean liquid can add extra flavor. - 5
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally.
๐ก Tip: Simmering allows the ingredients to soften and the flavors to develop. - 6
If the stew is too thick, add a little more water or bean liquid. Season generously with salt, pepper, and marjoram if using.
๐ก Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking. - 7
Serve hot, ideally with a dollop of sour cream or a slice of crusty bread.
๐ก Tip: Jota often tastes even better the next day.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add a piece of smoked pork rib to the stew while it simmers.
- โIf you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot.
- โAdjust the amount of sauerkraut to your preference for sourness.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- A pinch of caraway seeds can add an interesting aromatic note.