Sorcova

Delicious Sorcova Recipe with Vegetables and Sausages

A dish that combines tradition with innovation, this Sorcova recipe comes from the desire to creatively and tastily use all available ingredients. From its attractive appearance and vibrant colors to the deep flavors and pleasant texture, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal, this Sorcova is easy to prepare and, most importantly, delicious!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the base:
- 1 cup semolina
- 2 ½ cups water
- a pinch of salt
- 150 g mature cheese (opt for well-aged cheese for an intense flavor)
- 50 g mozzarella cheese (for a soft texture)
- 2 eggs

For the layers of vegetables and sausages:
- 4-5 medium potatoes
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 zucchinis
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 Oltenian sausages (or any sausages you prefer)
- salt (to taste)
- juice from half a lemon (to add a fresh note)

For the sauce:
- 1 can of tomatoes in their own juice
- 1 large onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt (to taste)
- freshly ground pepper (for a more intense flavor)
- a few sprigs of fresh thyme (for an aromatic fragrance)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
1. Start by washing the potatoes well, then boil them with their skins in salted water. Let them boil for about 20 minutes, until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked.
2. Meanwhile, peel the eggplants and zucchinis, then slice them lengthwise. Place them in a bowl with water, salt, and lemon juice, letting them sit for 30 minutes. This step will help remove bitterness from the eggplants.
3. After soaking, remove them and dry them with a clean kitchen towel. Heat a grill pan with a splash of oil and fry the eggplant and zucchini slices for one minute on each side, until they become golden and slightly crispy.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce
1. In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for a moment, being careful not to burn it.
3. Pour in the can of tomatoes in their own juice and add the larger diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Preparing the base
1. Boil 2 ½ cups of water with a pinch of salt. When the water comes to a boil, add the semolina gradually, continuously stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps.
2. Let the semolina boil for 5-7 minutes, then transfer it to a bowl and let it cool.
3. Once the semolina is warm (not hot!), add the beaten eggs, grated cheese, and mozzarella, mixing well until combined.

Step 4: Assembling the Sorcova
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Start with a layer of semolina base, followed by a layer of boiled potato slices.
3. Then add a layer of eggplant and zucchini, followed by half of the tomato sauce and half of the sausages, sliced thinly.
4. Repeat the layers: another layer of potatoes, eggplant and zucchini, sauce, and sausages.
5. For decoration, you can grate a boiled potato on top and add a few sprigs of fresh thyme.

Step 5: Baking
1. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the base is golden and the vegetables are cooked.
2. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing, so it stabilizes and is easier to serve.

Serving
Sorcova is served warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. For an even more special touch, you can accompany the dish with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Practical tips
- Varied vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, depending on your preferences.
- Sausages: Experiment with different types of sausages, such as homemade sausages or chicken sausages for a lighter version.
- Caloric weight: A serving of Sorcova contains approximately 350-400 kcal, but these values may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with various types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a more intense flavor.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble the Sorcova a day ahead, keeping it in the fridge, and then bake it before serving.
- How do I store leftovers? Sorcova keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Variations
- Vegetarian Sorcova: A delicious meat-free version can be made using only vegetables and a tomato sauce enriched with spices.
- Spicy Sorcova: Add chopped hot peppers to the tomato sauce for an extra flavor boost and spiciness.

This Sorcova recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, every bite will be a true feast. Enjoy your meal!