Kraška Jota with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) sauerkraut 2 cups (400g) sauerkraut
• 1 cup (200g) dried beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight 1 cup (200g) dried beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 smoked turkey sausages, sliced 2 smoked turkey sausages, sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced smoked turkey sausages and cook until lightly browned.
3. 3.
   Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with the sauerkraut, potatoes, carrots, bay leaves, and dried thyme.
4. 4.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the ingredients are fully submerged.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Kraška Jota.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked turkey sausages — If you can't find smoked turkey sausages, you can substitute with smoked chicken sausages or smoked tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Sauerkraut — Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water before using to reduce its sourness if desired.
• Dried beans — Make sure to soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a small piece of smoked bacon or ham hock to the stew.
• Serve the Kraška Jota with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
• This stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating it for a quick and delicious meal.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Some people enjoy adding a touch of paprika or chili flakes for a hint of spiciness.
• Serve the Kraška Jota with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Serving advice

Serve the Kraška Jota hot in bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley. Accompany it with a slice of crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top of the stew and sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.