Kolozsvár-style sauerkraut with rice and pork

This Transylvanian relative of rakott káposzta, the Hungarian layered cabbage bake, is a one-pot, stirred-together version: sauerkraut, minced pork, rice and sour cream with plenty of paprika. It takes less work than the layered dish, yet loses nothing in flavour. It is ideal for a weeknight supper, and easy to make in large quantities.

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Method

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1. Braise the sauerkraut in a little lard with a little water for about 20 minutes until tender. ⏱ Timer: 20 min
2. In a separate pan, soften the onion until translucent, take off the heat and stir in the paprika.
3. Add the mince, season with salt and pepper and braise with a little water for about 20 minutes until tender. ⏱ Timer: 20 min
4. Meanwhile, cook the rice in salted water for about 12-15 minutes, then drain. ⏱ Timer: 12 min
5. When the cabbage and meat are both tender, mix them with the cooked rice.
6. Stir in the sour cream, bring back to the boil and adjust the salt if needed.
7. Serve warm.

Based on: A jó házikonyha (a classic Hungarian cookbook), modernised. Calories and protein are estimated.

Tips

• Keep the rice slightly firm, because it goes on softening with the cabbage, and if overcooked the dish turns mushy.
• Fry the meat until it loses its pink colour and only then add a little water. This way the mince does not clump, and its flavour is stronger too.
• A little smoked sausage or smoked bacon added to the onions gives this simple dish a deeper, more Transylvanian flavour.

Frequently asked questions

How is it different from rakott káposzta?

Rakott káposzta is layered and baked in the oven, whereas this dish is stirred together in a pot. If you like, you can spread the finished mixture in a baking tin, brush it with sour cream and put it in the oven for half an hour.

Can something else be used instead of rice?

It is also delicious with pearl barley, which needs longer cooking. If you want to cut down on carbohydrates, the rice can be left out. In that case reduce the sour cream, so that the dish does not turn too loose.

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• Creamy green bean stew with meat patties
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• Cold supper platter with cold cuts and cheese

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