Kapama is a traditional Bulgarian dish often prepared for festive occasions and holidays. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines various types of meats, rice, sauerkraut, and spices, all slow-cooked together to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Kapama, you will need:
- 500 grams of pork, cut into pieces
- 500 grams of chicken, cut into pieces
- 500 grams of beef, cut into pieces
- 1 cup of rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jar (500 grams) of sauerkraut
- 2 tablespoons of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1 cup of red wine
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Meats
- Season the Meats: Rub the pork, chicken, and beef pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Brown the Meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meat pieces on all sides. Remove the meats and set them aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and translucent.
Step 3: Assembling the Kapama
- Layer the Ingredients: In the pot, layer the browned meats, followed by a layer of sauerkraut, and then a layer of rice. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle cumin, thyme, and black pepper over each layer. Add the bay leaves.
- Pour the Wine: Pour the red wine over the layers. Add enough water to just cover the ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cooking
- Simmer: Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over low heat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook slowly for about 2-3 hours, or until the meats are tender and the flavors are well combined. Check occasionally and add more water if needed.
Serving
Kapama is best served hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations
- Meat Variations: You can use lamb or sausage in addition to or instead of the meats listed for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, omit the meats and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots.
- Spicy Kapama: Add some chili flakes or a hot pepper for a spicy version of Kapama.
Kapama is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Bulgaria. Its combination of meats, sauerkraut, and rice makes it a perfect dish for festive gatherings and cold winter days. Enjoy making and sharing this traditional Bulgarian recipe with your loved ones!