European > Balkan > Croatian

Mućkalica with Peppers and Onions Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. pork shoulder, cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp. sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Special equipment needed:
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the oil in the pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, peppers, and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the paprika, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the water, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine vinegar, and sugar, and stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
7. Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the pork is tender.
8. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for browning the pork, then low heat for simmering the mixture.
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 310
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 670mg
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 21g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder can be substituted with beef or chicken.
- Red and green bell peppers can be substituted with any color bell peppers.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with cilantro or basil.

Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for a heartier meal.
- Use hot paprika or add chili flakes for a spicier version.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed beans for extra protein.

Tips and tricks:
- Cut the pork into small cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to prevent burning.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in a bowl or on a plate with a side of bread or rice.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with additional chopped parsley or cilantro.

Pairings:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or rice.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and continue to simmer until it thickens.
- If the pork is tough, continue to simmer until it is tender.

Food safety advice:
- Cook pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator.

Food history:
Mućkalica is a traditional Serbian stew made with meat, peppers, and onions. It is typically served with bread or rice.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, slightly sweet, and slightly spicy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Bosnian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Herby, Aromatic