Ingredients

2 thick slices hickory-smoked bacon
1 pound kielbasa sausage , sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
1 pound cubed pork stew meat
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cloves garlic , chopped
1 onion , diced
2 carrots , diced
1 1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 jar sauerkraut , rinsed and well drained
1/4 cup dry red wine
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon caraway seed , crushed
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1/2 ounce dried mushrooms
1 dash bottled hot pepper sauce
1 dash Worcestershire sauce
5 cups beef stock
2 tablespoons canned tomato paste
1 cup canned diced tomatoes
Bigos is a traditional Polish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The stew is often referred to as "Hunter's Stew" because it was originally made with game meat hunted by Polish nobility. Today, it is typically made with a combination of pork and sausage, along with a variety of vegetables and sauerkraut. The dish is known for its complex and rich flavors, and is often served at special occasions and family gatherings. While preparing Bigos requires some time and effort, the end result is well worth it.

Instructions

1.Brown bacon in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2.Add sausage and pork to the pot and cook until brown.
3.While the meat is cooking, sprinkle flour over it and stir until coated.
4.Add garlic, onions, and carrots to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
5.Add fresh mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and brown.
6.Add shredded cabbage, sauerkraut, wine, bay leaf, basil, marjoram, paprika, salt, black pepper, caraway seed, and cayenne pepper to the pot.
7.Crush dried mushrooms into the pot and add along with bottled hot pepper sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes.
8.Mix everything together and bring to a boil.
9.Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

PROS

Bigos is a hearty and filling meal, perfect for cold weather.

The combination of meat, vegetables, and sauerkraut creates a unique and delicious flavor.

CONS

This recipe takes some time and effort to prepare, so it may not be suitable for busy weeknights.

Some people may find the strong flavor of sauerkraut to be overpowering.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Bigos contains a variety of healthful ingredients, including vegetables, lean meat, and sauerkraut which offers probiotic benefits to support digestion and gut health. It is also low in sugar, making it a good option for those watching their sugar intake.

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