Bihor stew

Bihor Stew: A Delicacy with Unmistakable Flavors

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Bihor stew is more than just a simple dish; it is a true culinary experience, a refined blend of meat, vegetables, and spices that combines tradition with sophisticated taste. With each bite, you will feel the warmth of a meal cooked with love, perfect for chilly days or family gatherings. This recipe will bring the flavors of a gentle autumn into your home, and with each step, you will discover the secrets of a stew that will delight your taste buds.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg pork (choose a piece that contains some fat for a richer flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (for a mild aroma and vibrant color)
- 1 glass of white wine (adds a touch of elegance and complexity)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for an intense flavor)
- 250 g brain (optional, but adds a unique texture)
- Oil for frying (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 500 g mushrooms (preferably champignon, but you can also use wild mushrooms for a deeper flavor)
- 2 onions (large, finely chopped)
- 1 kg peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (finely chopped, for added freshness)
- 2 eggs (to bind the ingredients and add a touch of creaminess)

Preparing the Bihor stew:

1. Preparing the meat:
Cut the pork into medium-sized cubes (about 3-4 cm). This will help with even cooking. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire surface of the meat. In a large pot, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat it well. Add the meat and sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it turns golden and changes color. This step is essential for sealing in the meat's juices.

2. Braise the meat:
Once the meat is browned, add a cup of water. This will help soften the meat and develop flavors. Cover the pot with a lid and let the meat simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.

3. Preparing the brain:
If you decided to use brain, wash it well under a stream of cold water to remove the membranes. Then, blanch it in boiling water for 5 minutes to prepare it. After it cools, cut it into large pieces.

4. Cooking the vegetables:
In a separate pan, add the remaining oil and heat it. Add the finely chopped onion and mushrooms. Sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and the mushrooms release their juice. This step will add an extra layer of flavor to your stew.

5. Adding the aromatic ingredients:
Once the onion and mushrooms are ready, add the tomato paste, pepper, paprika, peas, and pieces of brain. Mix everything well and continue to cook for 15 minutes. It is essential to stir constantly to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

6. Finalizing the dish:
Towards the end of the 15 minutes, add the white wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes to evaporate the alcohol and concentrate the flavors. Then, add the beaten eggs and parsley, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth texture. Finally, incorporate the cooked pork, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. Let the dish simmer together for another 5 minutes.

7. Serving:
Bihor stew is served hot, ideally alongside steaming polenta or fresh bread. You can add a seasonal salad for a fresh contrast. A bottle of white wine or a cold beer pairs perfectly with this hearty dish.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the meat: Choose pork with a moderate fat content to achieve a juicy and flavorful stew.
- Vegetarian option: You can omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Cooking time: If you prefer a more tender texture, you can let the stew simmer longer, adding water if necessary.
- Storage: The stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavors become even more intense after a day.

Nutritional benefits:
Bihor stew is rich in protein due to the pork and brain, while the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. White wine, consumed in moderation, can offer heart health benefits due to its antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can also be adapted with beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.

- What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, each adding its own flavor notes.

- How can I enhance the flavor of the stew?
Try adding a few bay leaves or a pinch of thyme to diversify the flavors.

Bihor stew is more than just a simple dish; it is a family story, a recipe that has been passed down through generations, full of memories and moments of joy. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its flavors, turning every meal into an unforgettable feast!