Gourmandise Auvergnate

Introduction

The Gourmandise Auvergnate is a rustic dish that hails from the beautiful region of Auvergne in France. Known for its hearty and robust flavors, this dish embodies the essence of French countryside cuisine. Auvergne is famous for its rich agricultural heritage, often celebrated through its culinary traditions. The Gourmandise Auvergnate, a true representation of this legacy, is a delightful blend of local meats, cheeses, and earthy vegetables. This recipe will walk you through the history, preparation, and enjoyment of this classic dish.

Background

Located in central France, Auvergne is a region characterized by its volcanic landscape and rural charm. The cuisine of Auvergne reflects its rugged terrain with recipes that rely heavily on local produce and artisanal products. Cheese such as Cantal, Saint-Nectaire, and Bleu d'Auvergne are staples in many dishes, providing unique flavors that define the area's gastronomy. Gourmandise Auvergnate combines these cheeses with meats like pork and smoked sausage, along with hearty vegetables.

This dish has evolved over time as local farmers experimented with ingredients readily available to them, creating a hearty meal that not only satisfies hunger but also showcases the quality of local produce. Traditionally prepared in a large pot over a wood fire, today's recipe can be made using modern appliances while still maintaining its rustic charm.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder - 1 kg
• Smoked sausage - 300 g
• Onions - 2 large
• Potatoes - 500 g
• Cabbage - 1 small
• Garlic - 3 cloves
• Cantal cheese - 200 g, grated
• Saint-Nectaire cheese - 200 g, sliced
• Butter - 50 g
• Olive oil - 2 tbsp
• White wine - 200 ml
• Thyme - 1 tsp
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bay leaves - 2

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by cutting the pork shoulder into large cubes. Slice the smoked sausage into thick pieces. Peel and chop the onions finely. Slice the potatoes into thick slabs and shred the cabbage into manageable pieces. Mince the garlic. This step is crucial to ensure that all ingredients cook evenly and infuse their flavors into the dish.

Step 2: Browning the Meat

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter, allowing them to melt and combine. Once the fats are sizzling, add the cubed pork shoulder. Brown the meat on all sides, ensuring a golden crust forms. This process should take about 10 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and aromatic. This will take approximately 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. You may also add a splash of water if the pot becomes too dry.

Step 4: Adding Vegetables and Spices

Add the sliced potatoes and shredded cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine the vegetables with the aromatic mixture. Add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to ensure the spices coat the vegetables evenly.

Step 5: Deglazing and Cooking

Pour the white wine into the pot, stirring well to deglaze any flavors stuck to the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half, then return the browned pork shoulder and sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for at least 1 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender. Use a cooking timer to keep track.

Step 6: Adding the Cheeses

Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated Cantal cheese and sliced Saint-Nectaire cheese. Stir until the cheeses are well melted and combined with the rest of the dish. This final step is what gives Gourmandise Auvergnate its creamy, rich texture.

Enjoying Your Meal

Serve the Gourmandise Auvergnate hot, garnished with fresh chopped herbs of your choice. This dish pairs wonderfully with a baguette or rustic bread, which can be used to mop up the delicious sauce. A glass of light red or white wine complements the hearty flavors perfectly. Gather around with friends or family and enjoy the warmth and comfort this traditional dish brings.

This forgotten gem of French culinary tradition not only fills you with its sumptuous flavors but also brings the soul of Auvergne to your dining table. By following these steps, you have now created a meal fit to honor the storied history of this incredible region. Bon appétit!