Moldovan Tochitura

Moldovan tochitura - a feast of flavors and tradition

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

General Description:
Moldavian tochitura is a dish that perfectly combines the flavor of pork, the aroma of smoked sausage and the unmistakable taste of the sweetbread. This recipe is not just a meal, but a true culinary ritual that brings family and friends together. Whether you serve it for a weekend lunch or a celebration, the stew is sure to impress.

A bit of history:
The recipe for tofurkey has deep roots in culinary tradition, and is a combination of simple, yet particularly tasty ingredients. Inspired by the rural way of life, the stew has been cooked for generations and has evolved over time, but has retained its rustic and authentic essence. Mămăliga, a staple of the Romanian meal, combines perfectly with the meat dish, creating a synergy of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:
For the tochotte:
- 500 g fresh pork, cut into small pieces
- 4 smoked sausages, cut into suitable pieces
- 150 ml white wine
- 3-4 crushed garlic cloves
- 150 g salted sheep cheese, grated
- 3 eggs
- Oil, for frying
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings
- 200 g cornmeal
- 1 l water
- 1 teaspoon salt

Step by step guide:

1. Preparing the mum:
- In a large pot, bring 1 quart water with 1 teaspoon salt to a boil.
- When the water comes to a boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk to avoid lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the porridge from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The noodles are ready when they are creamy and have a uniform consistency.

2. Preparing the topping:
- In a large skillet, add a little oil and brown the pork pieces. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the meat browns nicely.
- Add the white wine, salt, pepper and thyme. Mix well, then add the crushed garlic. Simmer for 20-25 minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.
- Meanwhile, cut the sausages into suitable pieces. After the 25 minutes, add the sausage to the skillet and continue cooking until the sausage is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Preparing the eggs:
- In a separate skillet, you can fry the eggs in either oil or butter until the whites are firm and the yolks remain soft.

4. Assembling the preparation:
- Once all the components are ready, take a large platter. Place the mash in the center of the plate, top with the eggs, and arrange the meat and sausage topping around them.
- Scrape the salted cheese over the mixture and add some freshly ground pepper for extra flavor.

5. Serving:
- It's ideal to serve the stew with pickles, such as sour gherkins or cucumber, and of course a glass of white or red wine to complete the dining experience.

Practical tips:
- Make sure you use high-quality pork for better flavor. You can also opt for beef or lamb if you fancy something different.
- If you like more intense flavors, you can add a few fresh herbs like parsley or dill at the end of the stew.
- Instead of white wine, you can use a red wine, which will give a different but equally delicious flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other meats?
Yes, you can experiment with beef or chicken. Each type of meat will bring a unique flavor to the dish.

- How can I make the porridge creamier?
Add more water or a little milk during cooking. You can also stir a little butter into the hot porridge for extra creaminess.

- What other dishes can be served with stew?
Alongside the stew, you can serve a rustic coleslaw or a tomato and onion salad, which will add freshness and a nice contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
Moldavian toach stew is a protein-rich dish thanks to the meat and eggs, and the mămăliga provides complex carbohydrates, which are an excellent source of energy. Sheep's cheese adds calcium and healthy fats, but it's important to eat it in moderation because of its calorie content.

Conclusion:
Moldovan tochitura is more than just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that connects you to traditions and joyful moments spent with loved ones. So gather your family, prepare this tasty dish and enjoy every bite. Enjoy!