Judd Mat Gaarden

Introduction

Judd Mat Gaarden is a beloved traditional dish originating from Luxembourg. It's a hearty meal typically enjoyed during colder months as it offers warmth and comfort. The dish primarily consists of smoked pork neck and broad beans, and is often served with potatoes and bacon sauce. Its name translates to "smoked pork with broad beans" in English, emphasizing the primary ingredients that make this dish unique. Historically, Judd Mat Gaarden has been a staple in Luxembourgish cuisine, often served at gatherings and festive occasions.

Ingredients

• Smoked pork neck - 1 kg
• Broad beans - 500 g
• Potatoes - 1 kg
• Bacon - 200 g
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Butter - 50 g
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Thyme - 1 sprig
• Bay leaf - 1
• White wine - 250 ml

Preparation

1. Begin by rinsing the smoked pork neck under cold water to remove any excess brining solution.
2. In a large pot, add the pork neck and cover it with water. Bring it to a boil and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This step helps to remove any impurities.
3. Drain the water, then add fresh water to the pot along with the thyme and bay leaf. Simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours until the meat becomes tender.
4. While the pork is cooking, prepare the broad beans. If you are using fresh broad beans, shell them and blanch in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. Cool immediately in ice water and remove the skins.
5. Peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters. Boil until tender, roughly 20 minutes.

Cooking Process

1. In a separate large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the bacon to the pan and cook until it becomes crisp. This process should take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once crisp, pour the white wine into the pan and let it reduce by half, which should take around 5 minutes.
4. Next, add the prepared broad beans to the bacon mixture. Stir well to incorporate all flavors and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Check the smoked pork neck; it should be tender by now. Remove it from the pot, slice it, and set aside.

Serving Suggestions

1. To serve Judd Mat Gaarden, place a generous piece of the sliced smoked pork neck on the plate.
2. Add a portion of the potatoes and top it with the rich bacon and broad beans sauce.
3. Pair this dish with a glass of Riesling or any Luxembourgish white wine to enhance its flavors.
4. Enjoy your meal with family and friends, perhaps discussing the rich history of Luxembourg while relishing this traditional dish.

Conclusion

Judd Mat Gaarden is more than just a dish; it's a testament to Luxembourg's culinary history. With ingredients like smoked pork neck, broad beans, and a savory bacon sauce, it's a celebration of local flavors and techniques passed down through generations. Perfect for family gatherings and traditional celebrations, this dish promises to bring a taste of Luxembourg to your table.

For an optimal experience, ensure that every component is cooked through for the ideal flavor meld. Remember to set your timer for each phase to achieve perfect results, as timing is crucial for unlocking the full taste profile of each ingredient.