Slavonija Braised Lamb

Slavonija Braised Lamb Recipe from Croatia - Delicious and Tender

Region / culture: Croatia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Slavonija Braised Lamb is a traditional Croatian dish that is hearty and flavorful. This dish features tender pieces of lamb shoulder cooked in a rich and savory sauce, served with homemade spaetzle. It is a perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

History

Slavonija Braised Lamb has its roots in the Slavonia region of Croatia, known for its rich culinary traditions. This dish is a staple in many Croatian households, especially during special occasions and family gatherings. The slow braising process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) of lamb shoulder, cut into 1 inch cubes
3 tbsp of butter or margarine
0.33 cup of chopped onion
1 tbsp of paprika
1 tbsp of tarragon
salt, to taste
0.5 cup of water or stock
1 cup of sour cream
Spaetzle
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1 pinch of salt
About 1 cup of flour

How to prepare

Brown the lamb slowly in butter, adding additional butter if needed. Add onion and paprika. Saute for 2 or 3 minutes, then add vinegar, salt, and stock.
Cover and simmer until the meat is tender, about 45 minutes. Stir in sour cream and heat to serving temperature. Serve with spaetzle or noodles.

For spaetzle: Mix eggs, salt, and flour together to form a fairly stiff dough. Pat out into a rectangle about 0.13 inch thick on a damp breadboard. With a damp table knife, cut into strips 1 inch wide. Cut or pinch off 1-inch pieces and drop them into a kettle of boiling, salted water.
When the dough comes to the surface, they are done. Drain in a colander and quickly turn into a hot bowl or casserole. Sprinkle with butter or buttered crumbs, toss lightly, and serve with any sauced meat dish.

Variations

Substitute lamb with beef or pork for a different flavor profile.
Add diced vegetables such as carrots and celery for added texture and nutrition.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the lamb slowly to develop a deep flavor.

- Saute the onions and paprika until fragrant to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

- Be patient while simmering the lamb, as this will ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful.

- Adding sour cream at the end of cooking adds a creamy richness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Slavonija Braised Lamb with a side of homemade spaetzle and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Pair with a glass of red wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Braising, Sauteing

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute chicken or vegetable stock for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the lamb and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving. The flavors will continue to develop, making the dish even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Slavonija Braised Lamb in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 400 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 20g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 35g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin A: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Wheat

Summary

Slavonija Braised Lamb is a rich and hearty dish that is high in protein and iron. It is a satisfying meal that provides a good balance of nutrients.

Summary

Slavonija Braised Lamb is a classic Croatian dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With tender pieces of lamb cooked in a rich and savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve with homemade spaetzle for a complete meal that is both comforting and delicious.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Slavonija Braised Lamb. It was many years ago, during a trip to the beautiful region of Slavonija in Croatia. I had always been drawn to the rich and hearty flavors of traditional Croatian cuisine, and I was eager to learn as much as I could during my time there.

I had the pleasure of staying with a kind family who welcomed me into their home with open arms. They were gracious enough to share their favorite recipes with me, including this delicious braised lamb dish. I was immediately captivated by the fragrant aromas that filled their kitchen as they prepared the meal, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

The matriarch of the family, an elderly woman with weathered hands and a warm smile, took me under her wing and began to teach me the secrets of Slavonija Braised Lamb. She explained that the key to this dish was in the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a truly unforgettable meal.

We started by marinating the lamb in a mixture of garlic, rosemary, and red wine, allowing it to soak up all of the delicious flavors overnight. The next day, we seared the meat in a hot pan until it was browned and crispy on the outside, then transferred it to a large pot filled with carrots, onions, and potatoes.

As the lamb simmered away on the stove, the aroma filled the air with warmth and comfort. The matriarch shared stories of her own childhood, of gathering around the table with her family and enjoying meals just like this one. I could feel the love and tradition that was poured into every dish she made, and I knew that I was learning from a true master.

After hours of slow cooking, the lamb was tender and succulent, falling off the bone with each bite. The vegetables had soaked up all of the delicious juices, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that coated everything in the pot. We served the dish with a side of crusty bread and a glass of red wine, savoring each bite as we sat around the table together.

I left Slavonija with a full heart and a notebook filled with recipes from my time there. This recipe for Slavonija Braised Lamb has become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the warmth and hospitality I experienced during my time in Croatia. Every time I make this dish, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen, surrounded by the love and laughter of a family who welcomed me as one of their own.

To me, cooking is more than just following a recipe - it is a way to connect with others, to share stories and traditions, and to create lasting memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from the matriarch of that family in Slavonija, and to carry on the tradition of this delicious dish in my own home. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am thankful for all of the recipes and stories that have been passed down to me over the years.