Caltabos

Caltaboșii, or as we called them in childhood, "galdibașii", are that delicacy that reminds us of moments spent with loved ones, of traditions passed down from generation to generation, and of hearty family meals. This recipe is a journey into beautiful memories and an invitation to experience a dish with an authentic taste and a unique texture. Caltaboșii are not only a delicious choice for festive meals, but also a way to bring to life the culinary traditions of our grandparents. Let's discover together how to prepare them step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients

- 2 kg pork liver
- 1 pork heart
- 2 pork kidneys
- 500 g minced pork
- 1 cup rice
- Salt (to taste)
- Peppercorns (to taste)
- Ground pepper (to taste)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- Thin pork intestines (about 2-3 meters)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

The first step in preparing caltaboșii is to take care of the main ingredients. Wash the liver, heart, and kidneys well under a stream of cold water. These organs are extremely rich in nutrients, having a high content of iron, B vitamins, and proteins. It is important to clean them of any impurities and cut them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.

Step 2: Cooking the ingredients

Put the liver, heart, and kidneys in a large pot, add enough water to cover them, then season with salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Let them simmer over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes. It is essential to ensure they are well cooked, but do not overdo it, so they do not become too dry. Once cooked, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Preparing the mixture

Once the ingredients have cooled, pass them through a meat grinder or food processor. Add the minced pork and washed rice, mixing well. It is important that the rice is added dry, as it will absorb liquids during cooking, contributing to a pleasant texture of the caltaboșii. Add salt and pepper to taste, but remember that the mixture will be cooked again in seasoned water.

Step 4: Filling the intestines

Now comes the fun part! Attach the sausage stuffing device to the meat grinder. Wash the pork intestines well in cold water, then carefully roll them onto the device's tube. Fill the intestines with the mixture, being careful not to overfill them to avoid breaking. Tie the ends of the intestine tightly, leaving a little space for expansion.

Step 5: Cooking the caltaboșii

Place the caltaboșii in a large pot with the water in which the liver and kidneys were previously cooked, adding salt, pepper, and bay leaves for flavor. Simmer them on low heat, being careful to turn them occasionally, for about 1-1.5 hours. During cooking, use a toothpick to poke them gently; this will allow steam to escape and prevent them from bursting.

Step 6: Cooling and serving

Once the caltaboșii are well cooked, carefully remove them and let them cool on a platter. It is recommended to leave them at room temperature for an hour, then you can store them in the refrigerator. Caltaboșii can be served warm or cold, alongside mustard or a pickled salad, adding extra flavor.

Serving suggestions

Caltaboșii pair perfectly with freshly baked homemade bread and a glass of good țuică or dry red wine. Additionally, for a heartier meal, you can serve them alongside mashed potatoes or a cabbage stew.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add extra spices such as garlic or herbs to bring a personal touch to your recipe. You can also replace the rice with quinoa for a healthier, protein-rich option.

Nutritional benefits

Caltaboșii are an excellent source of protein due to the pork meat and organs used, and the liver is renowned for its high content of B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. However, it is advisable to consume them in moderation, considering their fat content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace pork with beef or chicken, but the final taste will be different.

2. How can I store caltaboșii?
They store well in the refrigerator, but can also be frozen for later use.

3. Can I make caltaboșii without pork intestines?
Yes, you can use cooking-resistant food wrap, but the texture will be different.

4. Can I add other ingredients?
Of course! You can add mushrooms or vegetables for a more complex taste and varied texture.

Caltaboșii are more than just a dish; they are a part of our culinary tradition, a symbol of conviviality and the joy of cooking together. So, don't hesitate to gather your family and friends to enjoy these delicious "galdibași" and create unforgettable memories around the table! Enjoy your meal!