Kavarma Kavarna - A Traditional Bulgarian Delight

Kavarma Kavarna is a quintessential Bulgarian dish that beautifully encapsulates the country’s rich culinary heritage. This hearty and savory stew is a staple in Bulgarian households, often reserved for festive occasions or family gatherings. The roots of Kavarma can be traced back to the Thracian tribes, whose cooking methods greatly influence modern Bulgarian cuisine. The dish is celebrated for its rustic charm and rich, comforting flavors, achieved by slowly simmering a mix of meat, vegetables, and spices.

Ingredients for Kavarma Kavarna

• Pork - 1kg, ideally shoulder or neck for the best flavor
• Onions - 3 large, thinly sliced
• Bell Peppers - 2, sliced (mix of red and green)
• Tomatoes - 4, chopped or 400g canned tomatoes
• Mushrooms - 200g, sliced
• Carrots - 2, sliced
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Red Wine - 200ml
• Bay Leaves - 2
• Paprika - 1 tablespoon
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon, ground
• Salt - to taste
• Oil - 3 tablespoons, for frying

Preparation and Cooking Process

Step 1: Marinating the Meat

Start by cutting the pork into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the pork, half of the red wine, garlic, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, cover, and leave to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

While the meat is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the onions and bell peppers, and chop the tomatoes if using fresh. Clean and slice the mushrooms, and slice the carrots.

Step 3: Sautéing

In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the bell peppers and continue to cook until they are soft. Stir in the mushrooms and carrots, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Adding the Meat

Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pork from the marinade and add it to the pot. Brown the pork on all sides, ensuring it absorbs the aromatic flavors from the vegetables.

Step 5: Simmering

Add the remaining red wine and the tomatoes to the pot, along with the marinade. Stir well, bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours. For an optimal cook time, consider using a cooking timer to ensure the dish is perfectly timed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Final Touches

After 2 hours, check the seasoning. Add more salt and black pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

How to Enjoy Kavarma Kavarna

Kavarma Kavarna is best enjoyed hot and is traditionally served with fresh crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. It pairs beautifully with a glass of medium-bodied red wine. For an authentic experience, accompany your meal with a traditional Bulgarian salad such as Shopska Salad, featuring chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and a generous grating of sirene cheese.