Krčka Maneštra with Istrian Sausage

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 200g (7oz) Istrian sausage, sliced 200g (7oz) Istrian sausage, sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 small cabbage, shredded 1/4 small cabbage, shredded
• 1 can (400g/14oz) white beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (400g/14oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400g/14oz) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g/14oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 6g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced Istrian sausage to the pot and cook until lightly browned.
3. 3.
   Stir in the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and shredded cabbage. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. 4.
   Add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Krčka Maneštra hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and accompanied by crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Istrian sausage — Look for authentic Istrian sausage, preferably made with a blend of pork and spices. If unavailable, you can substitute with a smoky sausage variety.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the stew.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the cooked potatoes and beans with a fork before serving.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to deepen and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve the Krčka Maneštra hot in individual bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Present the Krčka Maneštra in rustic bowls, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables to shine through. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of freshness.