Authentic Austrian Bauernschmaus: A Hearty Farmer's Feast Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of smoked pork loin
  • 1 pound of smoked sausage
  • 1 pound of smoked bacon
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook until they begin to soften.
  4. Meanwhile, cut the smoked pork loin, smoked sausage, and smoked bacon into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Add the smoked meats to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
  6. Add the cubed potatoes, chopped cabbage, caraway seeds, salt, and ground black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  7. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
  9. Bake for 60-90 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  10. Remove the pot from the oven and let the Bauernschmaus rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Chef's Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the smoked meats, vegetables, and other ingredients.
  • Dutch Oven - A large, heavy pot with a lid, used for cooking the Bauernschmaus in the oven.
  • Large Pot - A pot for sautéing onions, garlic, and cooking the smoked meats before transferring to the Dutch oven.
  • Wooden Spoon - A utensil for stirring and combining ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring Spoons - Utensils for accurately measuring the caraway seeds, ground black pepper, and salt.
  • Vegetable Peeler - A tool for peeling the potatoes.
  • Oven Mitts - Heat-resistant gloves or mitts for safely handling the hot Dutch oven when removing it from the oven.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of smoked meats such as ham, kielbasa, or bratwurst.
  • Add additional vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
  • Experiment with different seasonings such as paprika, thyme, or bay leaves.
  • Include apples or sauerkraut for added flavor.
  • Make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with vegetarian sausage or tempeh.
  • Replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes or butternut squash.
  • Add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • Try using different herbs such as parsley, rosemary, or dill.
  • Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free sausage and ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream or mustard on top for extra creaminess or tanginess.

Recipe overview

Bauernschmaus is a hearty and savory dish that originates from Austria. It is often referred to as a "farmer's feast" due to its generous use of smoked meats, including pork loin, sausage, and bacon. Combined with staple ingredients like potatoes and cabbage and flavoured with garlic, onions, and caraway seeds, this dish is a rich and comforting meal perfect for cold weather. This recipe will guide you through preparing this traditional Austrian one-pot dish, cooked slowly in the oven for the flavors to deeply meld together. Expect a delectable feast that would satiate your hunger and leave you wanting for more!

Common questions

  1. Can I substitute the smoked meats with other types of meat? Yes, you can substitute the smoked meats with other types of smoked or cured meats such as ham or kielbasa. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Bauernschmaus by omitting the smoked meats and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For a vegan version, omit the smoked meats and use vegetable oil instead of bacon.
  3. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of Bauernschmaus. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before consuming.
  4. What can I serve with Bauernschmaus? Bauernschmaus is traditionally served with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. It can also be accompanied by mustard, pickles, or sauerkraut.
  5. Can I adjust the seasonings to my taste? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or caraway seeds according to your personal preference. You can also add additional herbs or spices to enhance the flavor to your liking.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting board is essential for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
  • Chef's Knife - A sharp chef's knife is necessary for cutting the meat, vegetables, and other ingredients.
  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven - A large pot or Dutch oven is needed for cooking the Bauernschmaus on the stovetop and in the oven.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula - A wooden spoon or spatula is helpful for stirring and combining the ingredients while cooking.
  • Oven Mitts - Oven mitts will protect your hands while handling the hot pot from the oven.
  • Serving Platter or Plates - A serving platter or individual plates are needed for presenting the Bauernschmaus at the table.
  • Tongs - Tongs are useful for serving the cooked meat and vegetables from the pot to the serving platter or plates.
  • Ladle - A ladle is helpful for serving the flavorful broth from the pot to individual bowls.

Origin stories

Bauernschmaus, a hearty dish beloved in Austria, particularly in the alpine regions, translates literally to "Farmer's Feast". This name aptly reflects its origins - this robust and filling meal was traditionally prepared by farmers to keep them energized throughout their long, labor-intensive days. The recipe involves a variety of smoked meats, reflecting the farming community's need for long-lasting food staples that could be preserved for extended periods. The combination of these meats with locally available ingredients like cabbage and potatoes resulted in a flavorful, hearty dish that could satiate even the most robust of appetites. Today, Bauernschmaus is a beloved tradition, often enjoyed at celebrations and festive occasions, and its story is a testament to the resourcefulness and culinary creativity of Austria's farming communities.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.