Istarska Jota

Ingredients

Water

6 cups

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Salt

1 teaspoon, or to taste

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon, or to taste

Paprika

1 teaspoon

Bay leaves

2

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Onion

1 large, chopped

Potatoes

2 medium, diced

Smoked pork ribs

1 pound, cut into pieces

Dried beans

1 cup, soaked overnight and rinsed

Sauerkraut

2 cups, rinsed and drained

Instructions

1. Rinse the sauerkraut and beans under cold water to remove excess salt, and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the smoked pork ribs to the pot and cook until they are nicely browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes, letting their smoky aroma infuse the oil.
4. Stir in the rinsed sauerkraut, soaked beans, diced potatoes, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
5. Pour in the water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
6. Let the stew simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
7. Before serving, remove the bay leaves and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve the stew hot, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, and enjoy the authentic heartwarming flavors of Istria.