Caltaboș with a Twist

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork meat (such as shoulder or loin), cubed 500g (1.1 lb) pork meat (such as shoulder or loin), cubed
• 250g (8.8 oz) pork liver, finely chopped 250g (8.8 oz) pork liver, finely chopped
• 250g (8.8 oz) pork heart, finely chopped 250g (8.8 oz) pork heart, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the pork meat, liver, and heart to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat with the spices.
4. 4.
   Add enough water to cover the meat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
5. 5.
   Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Continue simmering for another 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.
6. 6.
   Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Caltaboș hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork liver — Make sure to finely chop the liver to ensure it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.
• Smoked paprika — Use a good quality smoked paprika to add a rich and smoky flavor to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the soup.
• Serve the Caltaboș with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the vegetables.

Serving advice

Caltaboș is best served hot as a main course. Accompany it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Garnish each serving of Caltaboș with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.