Description
Bigos, or Polish Hunter’s Stew, is a rich, hearty dish made with slow-cooked meats, sauerkraut, cabbage, and prunes. This comforting, flavor-packed stew is perfect for cold weather, family gatherings, and meal prep. The smoky, savory, and slightly sweet notes develop over time, making it even better the next day!
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thigh or lamb shoulder, cubed
- 4 halal sausages (chicken or beef), sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 cups sauerkraut (preferably organic and raw)
- 2 cups shredded white cabbage
- ½ cup dried porcini mushrooms
- ½ cup prunes, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced (optional)
Instructions
-
Rehydrate the Mushrooms:
- Place the dried porcini mushrooms in a measuring jug and cover with boiling water. Let them sit for 10 minutes.
-
Brown the Meats:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Transfer to a slow cooker.
- In the same pan, add the chicken or lamb. Brown for 5 minutes, then transfer to the slow cooker.
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the remaining oil to the pan. Sauté the onions for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes, adding a splash of vegetable stock if needed. Transfer to the slow cooker.
-
Assemble the Stew:
- Add the soaked mushrooms (with their liquid), prunes, sauerkraut, tomato paste, bay leaves, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and stir well.
-
Slow Cook:
- Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and flavors have melded together.
-
Final Touches & Serve:
- Discard the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with rye bread or mashed potatoes for a traditional Polish experience.
Notes
- Meat Variations: Swap chicken or lamb for turkey, beef, or even smoked meats for added depth.
- Sweeter Twist: Replace prunes with diced apples for a different sweetness.
- Extra Hearty: Add fresh mushrooms or root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
- Make it Keto: Omit prunes and adjust sauerkraut quantity for a low-carb version.
