Maltese-style Braunkohl Stew

Ingredients

In this Maltese adaptation of Bremer Braunkohl, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Maltese cuisine. The original German dish is traditionally made with kale, pork, and potatoes, while our Maltese-style version introduces Mediterranean elements such as Maltese sausage, tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs. These additions infuse the stew with a unique flavor profile that reflects the culinary traditions of Malta. We alse have the original recipe for Bremer Braunkohl, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) kale, stems removed and leaves chopped 500g (1.1 lb) kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 250g (8.8 oz) Maltese sausage, sliced 250g (8.8 oz) Maltese sausage, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Maltese sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped kale to the pot and cook for a few minutes until wilted.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. 5.
   Return the cooked sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the kale is tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. 7.
   Remove the bay leaves before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Kale — Make sure to remove the tough stems before chopping the leaves. Massage the kale with a bit of olive oil to help tenderize it before cooking.
• Maltese sausage — If you can't find Maltese sausage, you can substitute it with any other flavorful sausage such as Italian sausage or chorizo.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the stew while it simmers.
• Serve the stew with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• If you prefer a spicier stew, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Maltese-style Braunkohl Stew hot in bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top of the stew and serve it with a side of crusty bread.