Andalusian Gypsy Stew
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Andalusia is the southernmost part of Spain. Although economically the poorest region in Spain, it is arguably the richer in culture and cultural identity. Bullfighting, flamenco, and Moorish-influenced architectural styles, to name a few, are all of Andalusian origin. It is also the home of Spain’s Gypsies. This stew, called Olla Gitana, is a favorite among the Andalusian Gypsies. The use of almonds and bread crumbs is of Moorish influence (early Muslims who once ruled Spain), while the inclusion of pear is a distinctly Gypsy touch.
A hearty stew of garbanzo beans, pork, sausage, green beans, pumpkin, pears, Swiss chard, almonds, onions, tomatoes and spices – a full array of ingredients and interesting flavor combinations that will leave you feeling satisfied. You may even feel inspired to reach across the dinner table, grab your partner, and dance the flamenco!
Note: Levante, a neighboring area of Spain, also commonly eats a vegetarian version of this stew. Simply omit the meat and increase the amount of pumpkin by a cup along with an extra pear. Saute the onions and garlic and follow the instructions from there, skipping the hour of simmering.
Below are just a few of the ingredients that are in this wonderful gypsy stew. So many healthy, delicious ingredients and flavors. You’re going to really enjoy this gypsy stew recipe.
Enjoy!
Andalusian Gypsy Stew
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb pork , cut in 1/2 inch chunks
- 1/2 lb spicy ground sausage
- 1/2 lb pork bones , you can get these from your butcher
- 2 medium yellow onions , diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 cubes chicken or vegetable bouillon
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 15 oz cans garbanzo beans (paleo: omit and substitute more veggies)
- 2 cups pumpkin , diced (can substitute butternut or acorn squash)
- 15 ounce can petite diced tomatoes , or 2 fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 lb green beans , cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 pear , cored and diced
- 1 bunch Swiss chard , chopped
- 15 whole almonds , ground and toasted (preheat oven to 425 F, spread ground almonds on a baking sheet and toast for 1 minute)
- 2 tablespoons bread crumbs , paleo and gluten free: omit and substitute a few extra almonds
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat the pork cubes with paper towels to dry (this will enable browning). Fry the cubes of pork on all sides until nicely browned. Remove and set aside. Fry bones until the meat on them is browned. Remove and set aside. Fry the ground sausage until no longer pink. Add the onions and saute until translucent. Add the garlic and saute for another minute.Return the pork and pork bones to the Dutch oven and fill with water just until the meat is barely covered. Add the bouillon cubes and paprika. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for one hour.Add the pumpkin, beans, tomatoes, almonds, bread crumbs, and red wine vinegar. Return to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for another 20 minutes. Add the Swiss chard and pears and continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Add salt to taste.Serve immediately with crusty bread.
Hi, I’m Kimberly Killebrew and welcome to Daring Gourmet where you'll find delicious originals, revitalized classics, and simply downright good eats from around the world! Originally from Germany, later raised in England, world-traveled, and now living in the U.S., from my globally-influenced kitchen I invite you to tour the world through your taste buds!
