Traditional Varivo od Kupusa (Cabbage Stew)

Sastojci

• Fresh white cabbage1 kg
• Smoked pork belly or ribs300 g
• Onion1 large
• Carrots2 medium
• Potatoes2 medium
• Garlic3 cloves
• Tomato paste2 tbsp
• Paprika (sweet)1 tbsp
• Bay leaf1
• Vegetable oil or lard2 tbsp
• Saltto taste
• Black pepperto taste
• Waterenough to cover

Koraci

1. 1

   Chop the smoked meat into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

2. 2

   Peel and dice the carrots and potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes.

3. 3

   Shred the cabbage finely.

4. 4

   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil or lard over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

5. 5

   Add the smoked meat and brown it slightly for about 5 minutes.

6. 6

   Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

7. 7

   Add the shredded cabbage, diced carrots, diced potatoes, and bay leaf to the pot.

8. 8

   Pour in enough water to just cover the ingredients. Season with salt and black pepper.

9. 9

   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally.

10. 10

    Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.