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Bigos

Polish hunter's stew with a hearty mix of sauerkraut, cabbage, and multiple meats in a rich, tangy sauce. This one-pot meal tastes even better the next day and is perfect for cold weather.

110 minMediumServes 8380 cal/serving

Eastern EuropeanDinnerStovetopStandard

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Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
  • 4 cups sauerkraut
  • 1 head fresh cabbage, shredded
  • 2 large onions, diced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (or more broth)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 tsp caraway seeds
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown 2 lbs cubed pork shoulder and 2 lbs cubed beef chuck in batches, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.

  2. 2

    In the same pot, sauté 2 large diced onions for 5 minutes until softened. Add 8 oz sliced mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Deglaze the pot with 1 cup red wine (or more broth), scraping up any browned bits.

  4. 4

    Return the meat to the pot. Add 4 cups sauerkraut, 1 head shredded fresh cabbage, 2 cups beef broth, 2 bay leaves, and 1/2 tsp caraway seeds.

  5. 5

    Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

  6. 6

    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving.

  7. 7

    Ladle into bowls and serve hot. This stew tastes better the next day after flavors develop.

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Questions

What is Bigos?

Polish hunter's stew with a hearty mix of sauerkraut, cabbage, and multiple meats in a rich, tangy sauce. This one-pot meal tastes even better the next day and is perfect for cold weather. This reference files it under Eastern European dinner: made on the stovetop, rated medium and about 110 minutes start to finish.

What does deglazing do in Bigos?

Step 3 reads: "Deglaze the pot with 1 cup red wine (or more broth), scraping up any browned bits." The browned bits stuck to the pan are concentrated flavor. The liquid in step 3 dissolves them into the sauce; scrape the bottom as it bubbles.

Is there a substitute for red wine in Bigos?

The entry for Bigos calls for 1 cup red wine (or more broth). In its place: Use beef or mushroom stock with a tablespoon of red wine vinegar or balsamic per cup. The sauce will be a little less deep.

How many calories are in Bigos?

One serving (the recipe makes 8) is about 380 calories, with 38 g protein, 18 g carbohydrate and 16 g fat, plus 3 g fiber and 920 mg sodium.

How do I store and reheat Bigos?

Refrigerate what is left of Bigos within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

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