Traditional French Potée Comtoise Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of smoked pork belly
  • 2 sausages of Morteau
  • 1 smoked pork shank
  • 4 large carrots
  • 4 leeks
  • 4 turnips
  • 1 cabbage
  • 6 medium-sized potatoes
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 sprig of thyme
  • 1 tablespoon of peppercorns
  • 2 liters of water
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by preparing the vegetables: peel and wash the carrots, leeks, turnips and potatoes. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the hard stalk. Roughly chop the carrots, leeks and turnips.
  2. In a large pot, add the smoked pork belly, pork shank, sausages, bay leaf, thyme, peppercorns and cloves of garlic. Cover everything with 2 liters of water and bring to a simmer. Simmer for one hour.
  3. Add the carrots, leeks, turnips and cabbage to the pot. Continue to simmer for another hour.
  4. Add the potatoes to the pot and cook for a further 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Add salt to taste.
  5. Once everything is cooked, remove the meats from the pot and slice them. Arrange the meats and vegetables on a serving platter, and serve with the broth on the side.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook all the ingredients together.
  • Knife - A knife will be necessary to peel, chop, and slice the vegetables and meats.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board will provide a stable surface for chopping and slicing.
  • Tongs - Tongs are useful for handling and flipping the meats while cooking.
  • Slotted spoon - A slotted spoon can be used to remove the meats and vegetables from the pot.
  • Serving platter - A serving platter is needed to arrange the cooked meats and vegetables for serving.
  • Soup bowls - Soup bowls are ideal for serving the Potée comtoise along with the broth.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the smoked pork belly with bacon for a slightly different flavor.
  • Try using different types of sausages, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, instead of Morteau sausages.
  • Add some diced onions or shallots for extra flavor.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and use vegetable broth instead of water.
  • Experiment with different root vegetables, such as parsnips or rutabaga, in place of the turnips.
  • Add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a burst of freshness.
  • For a heartier version, you can add some cooked white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, to the pot.
  • Add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to the broth for a tangy twist.
  • If you prefer a spicier taste, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Serve the Potée comtoise with crusty bread or a side of grainy mustard for an extra kick.

Recipe overview

Potée comtoise is a hearty, flavorful stew originating from the Franche-Comté region in France. This traditional recipe is a delightful mix of vegetables and smoked meats that simmer together to create a delicious broth. The preparation is quite simple and mainly involves the simmering of ingredients in stages. The result is a one-pot meal with tender meats and perfectly cooked vegetables, all infused with the rich flavors of garlic, bay leaf and thyme. Perfect for a cold day, this comforting dish is a true reflection of French country cooking at its best.

Common questions

  1. What type of sausages can I use for Potée comtoise? You can use sausages specifically called "Morteau" sausages for an authentic flavor. If you can't find Morteau sausages, you can use similar smoked sausages as a substitute.
  2. Can I use different types of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat like smoked ham hock or bacon instead of smoked pork belly. However, the traditional recipe uses smoked pork belly and pork shank.
  3. Can I use different vegetables? While the recipe traditionally includes carrots, leeks, turnips, and cabbage, you can adjust the vegetables according to your preference. Some variations may include adding onions, parsnips, or celery.
  4. How long does it take to cook Potée comtoise? The total cooking time is approximately 2 and a half to 3 hours. This allows for the flavors to develop and the meat and vegetables to become tender.
  5. Can I make Potée comtoise in advance? Yes, you can make Potée comtoise in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve after resting for a day. Simply reheat gently before serving.
  6. What should I serve with Potée comtoise? Potée comtoise is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own. However, it can be served with crusty bread, grainy mustard, pickles, or a side salad if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A sturdy and spacious pot to cook the potée comtoise.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for peeling and chopping the vegetables.
  • Cutting board - A clean and sturdy surface for cutting the vegetables.
  • Serving platter - A large platter to arrange the cooked meats and vegetables for serving.
  • Soup bowls - Individual bowls for serving the potée comtoise.
  • Soup spoons - Deep spoons for enjoying the broth and scooping up the ingredients.
  • Tongs - Useful for removing the meats from the pot and slicing them.

Origin stories

Potée comtoise hails from the Franche-Comté region of Eastern France, an area known for its cold winters and hearty fare. This comforting stew was originally conceived as a way for farmers to make use of every part of the pig after slaughter, transforming even the most humble ingredients into a nourishing and flavorful meal. It's said that the best potée comtoise is made in winter, when the region's famous Morteau sausages are at their most flavorful, having been smoked over pine wood fires. This dish encapsulates the region's philosophy of simple, honest food, made with care and respect for the ingredients. The potée comtoise is more than just a stew; it's a testament to the Franche-Comté's enduring culinary traditions and a symbol of its people's resilience and creativity.

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.