Homemade Pfundstopf

Pfundstopf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) pork, cubed
• 1 pound (450g) beef, cubed
• 1 pound (450g) sausages (e.g., bratwurst or smoked sausage), sliced
• 1 pound (450g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 pound (450g) carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 pound (450g) onions, sliced
• 1 pound (450g) bell peppers, sliced (any color or mix)
• 1 can (14 oz / 400ml) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups (480ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the cubed pork and beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, and brown them on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
   • In a large pot or slow cooker, layer the browned meat, sliced sausages, cubed potatoes, bell peppers, and the sautéed vegetables.
   • Sprinkle each layer with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Add the Liquid:
   • Pour the crushed tomatoes, broth, and red wine (if using) over the layered ingredients.
   • Add the bay leaves.
5. Cook the Pfundstopf:
   • On the Stove: Cover and cook on low heat for about 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat and vegetables are tender.
   • In a Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Check for seasoning and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves before serving.
   • Serve the Pfundstopf in deep bowls with crusty bread on the side for soaking up the rich broth.

Tips:

• Meat Varieties: Feel free to use a mix of different meats like chicken or lamb, or use your favorite sausages.
• Vegetable Variations: Add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making it a day ahead and reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread or traditional German bread like rye.
• A green salad or sauerkraut would also complement this hearty dish.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours (stove) or 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 4-5 hours

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 8 servings):

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: ~25g
• Fat: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fiber: ~6g
• Sugar: ~10g

This hearty Pfundstopf is perfect for cozy gatherings and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this comforting German dish!