Kavourmas is a delicious dish that comes from the beautiful island of Cyprus. This traditional recipe is a type of pork stew that is rich in flavor and has a wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks. Kavourmas is not just a meal; it holds cultural and historical significance for many families in Cyprus. Traditionally, it was prepared during special occasions or holidays, making it a dish loved by many.

The charm of Kavourmas lies in its unique mixture of spices and the slow-cooking method, which makes the pork incredibly tender. People love this recipe because it’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for family gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want a special Sunday dinner, Kavourmas is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Pork shoulder (cut into cubes) 2 pounds
Olive oil 1/4 cup
Onion (chopped) 1 large
Garlic (minced) 4 cloves
Tomatoes (chopped) 2 (medium)
Red wine 1/2 cup (or chicken broth as an alternative)
Bay leaves 2
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) 1/4 cup (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and tomatoes and mincing the garlic. This will save time when you start cooking.

2. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Cook the Pork: Add the pork cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes. This helps to seal in the flavors.

4. Add Onions and Garlic: Once the pork is browned, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

5. Mix in Tomatoes: Next, add the chopped tomatoes, stirring everything together. Allow it to cook for another 3 minutes.

6. Pour in Red Wine: Carefully add the red wine (or chicken broth) to the pot. This ingredient adds depth to the flavor.

7. Season: Toss in the bay leaves, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

8. Simmer: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the pork will become!

9. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaves. Serve the Kavourmas hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount Daily Value (%)
Calories 325 16%
Protein 24g 48%
Carbohydrates 8g 3%
Fats 21g 32%
Sodium 450mg 20%
Vitamin A 5% 5%
Vitamin C 10% 10%

Tips and Tricks

– Marinate the Pork: For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork in olive oil, garlic, and spices overnight before cooking.
– Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to make the dish even more nutritious.
– Serve with Bread: Kavourmas tastes amazing when served with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
– Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time. If left too long, the pork can become dry instead of tender.

FAQs

What is Kavourmas?

Kavourmas is a traditional Cypriot dish made primarily from pork, cooked slowly with spices, tomatoes, and wine or broth.

Can I use other meats instead of pork?

Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken or beef, but the cooking time may vary.

How long can I store leftover Kavourmas?

You can store Kavourmas in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it tastes even better the next day!

Is Kavourmas spicy?

No, Kavourmas is not very spicy. It has a rich flavor from spices like cinnamon, but it’s not hot.

Can I freeze Kavourmas?

Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.

What can I serve Kavourmas with?

Kavourmas pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or bread for sopping up the delicious sauce.

How do I make it vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version by using hearty vegetables and legumes instead of meat.

What is the best way to reheat Kavourmas?

The best way to reheat Kavourmas is on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through.

Can I add more spices to Kavourmas?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or oregano, depending on your taste preference.

Why is the cooking time so long?

The long cooking time allows the pork to become tender and absorb all the flavors from the spices and sauce.

With this delicious recipe, you can bring a taste of Cyprus into your home! Enjoy your cooking adventure with Kavourmas!