Bela maneštra

Dish

Bela maneštra

White stew

To make this dish, potatoes and cabbage are cooked with onions, garlic, and vegetable stock until they are tender. The soup is then pureed until smooth and seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. It is usually served with crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream.

Jan Dec

Origins and history

Bela maneštra has been a staple in Istrian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated as a peasant dish, made with whatever ingredients were available. Today, it is a popular dish in many restaurants throughout the region.

Dietary considerations

This dish is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Variations

There are many variations of this dish, some of which include the addition of beans, carrots, and other vegetables. Some recipes also call for the addition of smoked meat or sausage.

Presentation and garnishing

This soup is traditionally served in a large bowl, with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.

Tips & Tricks

To save time, you can use pre-shredded cabbage instead of chopping it yourself.

Side-dishes

Crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream are the perfect accompaniments to this soup. A simple green salad would also be a nice side dish.

Drink pairings

A light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, would pair well with this dish.