Potato stew with bacon

Potato stew with gușă is one of those comforting recipes that reminds you of the lavish meals of childhood, where the rich aroma of ingredients intertwines with the warmth and atmosphere of family. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that manages to transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish, perfect for any occasion. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes (choose red or yellow potatoes, which are creamier)
- 1 large onion (preferably white or yellow for sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper (or red, for a splash of color)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for an intense flavor and vibrant color)
- 500 g gușă (can be smoked or fresh, depending on preference)
- 1 cup of water (about 250 ml, but adjust as needed)
- 1-2 tablespoons oil (olive oil or sunflower oil, to taste)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for finishing)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under cold water, then peel and cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking. Peel, wash, and finely chop the onion. Remove the seeds from the bell pepper and dice it.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to release its aromas. This is the stage where the onion becomes the base of the sauce, so don’t neglect it.

3. Adding the bell pepper and gușă: Once the onion is sautéed, add the diced bell pepper and gușă. If using smoked gușă, the aroma will be even more intense. Mix everything well and let it cook for 5 minutes until the gușă starts to brown slightly.

4. Incorporating the tomato paste and water: Add the tomato paste to the pot, mixing well to incorporate it evenly. Then pour in a cup of water. Stir again and let it boil over medium heat. This is the stage where the flavors blend, and the stew will start to take on a nice consistency.

5. Cooking the potatoes: Once the mixture comes to a boil, add the cubed potatoes and more water until it covers the potatoes. Let it boil for 10 minutes. It is important that there is enough water to cook the potatoes but not so much that it becomes a soup.

6. Seasoning: After 10 minutes, add the basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. These herbs will give a wonderful aroma to your dish. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are well cooked and soft but not falling apart.

7. Finishing the dish: When the stew is ready, add the chopped parsley. This will add a touch of freshness and color at the end. Gently stir and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

8. Serving: The potato stew with gușă is served hot, ideally alongside a fresh green salad or pickles for a contrast of flavors. You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread that will soak up the delicious sauce.

Practical Tips

- Choosing ingredients: Select high-starch potatoes for a creamy texture. Sweet onion will add a touch of flavor, and colorful bell pepper will make the dish more appealing.
- Variations: You can replace gușă with pork or chicken, depending on your preferences. You can also add carrots or peas for a splash of color and extra nutrients.
- Slow cooking: If you have time, you can cook the stew on low heat in a ceramic pot to intensify the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

Potato stew with gușă is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates from potatoes, providing energy. Gușă brings protein and healthy fats, while the vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, basil and thyme contribute antioxidants and boost the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or turkey.
- How can I store the stew for later consumption? You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It can be easily reheated on the stove or in the microwave.
- Is it suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe by eliminating the meat and using additional vegetables, such as mushrooms or lentils, to add protein.

Potato stew with gușă is an excellent choice for a family meal, offering not just a tasty dish but also unforgettable moments spent around the table. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by its delightful aromas!