Kubanskiy Zapekanka

About Kubanskiy Zapekanka

Kubanskiy Zapekanka is a traditional Russian casserole dish originating from the Kuban region, known for its rich agricultural heritage. This hearty dish typically combines potatoes, meat, and vegetables baked to perfection, providing a satisfying meal that is both comforting and filling. Historically, it has been enjoyed by farmers and families as it utilizes simple, accessible ingredients while reflecting the tastes of Southern Russia.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 1 kg, peeled and sliced
• Ground Beef - 500 g
• Onions - 2 large, diced
• Carrots - 2 large, grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Bell Peppers - 2, any color, chopped
• Tomato Paste - 2 tablespoons
• Sour Cream - 200 g
• Cheese - 200 g, grated (such as gouda or cheddar)
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Fresh Herbs - such as dill or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Begin by washing, peeling, and slicing the potatoes into thin rounds. Set them aside in cold water to prevent them from turning brown. Dice the onions, grate the carrots, chop the bell peppers, and mince the garlic. These ingredients will form the base flavor of the zapekanka.

Step 2: Cooking the Filling

In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, frying them until they become soft and translucent. Incorporate the ground beef into the mixture, cooking until browned. Then, add the carrots and bell peppers, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.

Next, mix in the tomato paste and sour cream, seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Assembling the Zapekanka

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread the cooked filling evenly over the potatoes, then top with the remaining potato slices. Make sure the entire top is well-covered to ensure even baking.

Step 4: Baking the Zapekanka

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. You can set a timer to keep track of the baking periods.

Step 5: Serving and Enjoying

Once baked, remove the zapekanka from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like dill or parsley. Serve the zapekanka warm, pairing it with a side salad or pickled vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the melding of flavors and the hearty texture that makes Kubanskiy Zapekanka a favorite comfort food.

Tips for Enjoyment

Kubanskiy Zapekanka is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but it can also be a great dish to prepare in advance and reheat. The flavors often deepen with time, making leftovers particularly tasty. Pair your zapekanka with a glass of dry white wine or a chilled Russian kvass to complement the rich, savory flavors of the dish.