Pork Ribs Wrapped in Sauerkraut - Csurdongolos

Preparation: We start by cutting the pork ribs, being careful to score them lightly to allow the spices to penetrate better. We generously season them with salt and pepper, ensuring that each piece is well coated with these aromatic spices. The onion, an essential ingredient in this recipe, is peeled, washed under cold running water, and finely chopped so that it melts into our savory sauce. The smoked bacon, which will add a distinct aroma to the dish, is cut into thin strips.

The pickled cabbage leaves are another vital element, so we make sure to clean them of the larger veins and wash them well to remove any excess salt. If the leaves are not large enough to wrap the ribs, do not hesitate to use two overlapping leaves to ensure even coverage. In a pan, we heat two tablespoons of lard, where we will fry the seasoned ribs on both sides until they become golden and appetizing. Once they are ready, we set them aside and let them cool.

In a deep pot, we place the slices of smoked bacon to melt, ensuring we release all the aroma from them. In the remaining lard, we add the finely chopped onion and let it sauté until it becomes translucent. To this mixture, we add a teaspoon of sweet paprika, pepper to taste, and extinguish everything with 250 ml of water. We add a cube of broth to intensify the flavors and let it boil until everything comes to a simmer.

Now it is time to carefully place the pieces of ribs wrapped in cabbage leaves into the boiling sauce. It is important to add enough water to gently cover the ingredients so that the pieces of meat are slightly visible. We season with a teaspoon of thyme, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat. This process will take some time, but patience will be rewarded with tender and juicy meat. If necessary, we can add more water along the way to keep the sauce at an optimal level.

In the end, there will be a delicious sauce left, which can be served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, enriched with a splash of sour cream, to taste. This recipe is perfect for gathering the family at the table and enjoying a tasty, warm dish full of tradition. Enjoy your meal!