Trusii-style Tochitura

Tochitura a la Trusii: A Traditional Delicacy with a Homey Flavor

When you want to bring a touch of tradition and authentic taste to your plate, tochitura a la Trusii is the perfect choice. This rich recipe is based on a combination of pork and beef, enriched with organs, a selection of herbs and spices, and is slow-cooked to allow the flavors to fully develop. It is a dish that not only nourishes but also evokes memories of Sunday meals spent with loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork (shoulder or leg for juiciness)
- 500 g beef (choose a piece with a little fat)
- 2-3 pieces of pork liver (or beef, according to preference)
- 2 pieces of pork kidneys (optional, but recommended for an authentic taste)
- 2 sausages (preferably homemade, for a more intense flavor)
- 1 piece of pork heart (for extra flavor)
- 2 medium onions (white or yellow onions work best)
- 3 cloves of garlic (helps enhance the flavors)
- 2 bay leaves (to add a floral note)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of tomato sauce (you can use homemade tomato sauce for an even better taste)
- Oil for frying

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the pork and beef into medium cubes. The organs, such as liver and kidneys, can be left whole or cut into smaller pieces, depending on preference. Chop the onion finely, and crush or finely chop the garlic.

2. Heating the oil: Take a suitable pot and add a generous amount of oil. Heat it well, but not to the smoking point, to avoid burning the ingredients.

3. Browning the meat and organs: Add the pork and beef to the pot, allowing them to brown over medium heat. Watch closely, as you want to achieve a nice golden color on all sides. Add the kidneys, liver, and heart, letting them fry until they are slightly golden.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion. Cook everything together until the onion becomes translucent and starts to caramelize, bringing a natural sweetness to the dish.

5. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste, then pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Finalizing the dish: After simmering, add the tomato sauce, finely chopped garlic, and bay leaves. Mix well, then transfer everything to the oven. Cook at a medium temperature (about 180°C) for 30 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and make the meat extremely tender.

7. Serving: Here comes the highlight! Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, serve the tochitura hot, alongside a generous portion of creamy polenta, a perfectly fried egg, and grated cheese on top. This combination is truly irresistible!

Useful tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add some herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Instead of polenta, you can try serving the tochitura with mashed potatoes or fresh bread.
- Don’t hesitate to adapt the recipe according to your preferences; you can use only pork or only beef, and the kidneys and heart can be omitted (or replaced with other organs).

Nutritional benefits:
Tochitura a la Trusii is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, due to the meat and organ content. Pork and beef provide iron, zinc, and B vitamins, essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use only pork?
- Yes, you can adapt the recipe using only pork, but keep in mind that it will lack some complexity of flavor.

2. How can I make the recipe easier?
- You can use pre-cooked or smoked meat, thus reducing the preparation time.

3. What other side dishes go well with tochitura?
- Besides polenta, you can serve it with a fresh salad or pickles, to add a contrast of textures and balance the rich taste of the dish.

Personal note:
This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations and reminds me of childhood meals when everyone gathered around the table. Each serving of tochitura is a journey back in time, filled with warm memories and family stories.

So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe and bring your family closer at the festive table! Enjoy your meal!