Delicious Bulgarian Kavarma Recipe

Discover the rich flavors of traditional Bulgarian kavarma, a hearty stew with pork, vegetables, and savory spices. Perfect for a comforting dinner.
A bowl of soup reminiscent of a Bulgarian kavarma, rich with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, green beans, and broccoli, accompanied by a spoon and a folded napkin on the table. This hearty recipe offers warmth and comfort in every spoonful.
A bowl of soup containing chunks of fish, carrots, potatoes, and green vegetables, garnished with fresh herbs. This delightful dish can be transformed into a Bulgarian Kavarma by incorporating traditional techniques for a truly authentic experience.

Delicious Bulgarian Kavarma Recipe

An indian woman smiling in a market.Maya Rivera
Kavarma is a traditional Bulgarian stew made with pork, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and savory spices, perfect for a hearty dinner.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Meal Type Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Bulgarian
Servings 6
Calories 127 kcal
Difficulty Medium
Ingredient Cost $17
Shopping Cost$38

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1.3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large onions chopped
  • 2 bell peppers chopped
  • 3 large tomatoes chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon thyme dried
  • 1 teaspoon savory dried
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meat:

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
    2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Add the cubed pork and brown on all sides.
    1.3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into cubes

Cook the Vegetables:

  • Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot.
    2 large onions, 2 bell peppers, 2 cloves garlic
  • Cook until the vegetables are softened.

Add the Tomatoes and Spices:

  • Stir in the chopped tomatoes, paprika, thyme, savory, salt, and pepper.
    3 large tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 teaspoon savory, Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

Simmer the Stew:

  • Pour in the red wine and water (or chicken broth).
    1 cup red wine, 1 cup water
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  • Cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well combined.

Serve:

  • Serve the kavarma hot, with crusty bread or over rice.

Notes

Kavarma can also be made with chicken or beef, depending on your preference.
This dish tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutrition

Calories: 127kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 12mgPotassium: 440mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2185IUVitamin C: 68mgCalcium: 32mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Bulgarian Stew, Comfort Food, Kavarma, Pork Stew, Traditional Bulgarian Dish

Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements

Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Kavarma is a traditional Bulgarian stew that embodies comfort and warmth, making it a cherished dish in many households. This hearty meal features tender pork, a variety of vegetables, and a medley of savory spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying and flavorful experience. Often served at family dinners, kavarma is perfect for bringing people together around the table. Its comforting nature and robust taste make it an ideal choice for dinner after a long day. With each bite, this dish showcases the essence of Bulgarian cuisine, offering a delightful reminder of home and the joy of shared meals. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or as a regular comfort food, kavarma provides a hearty and nourishing option that warms both the body and soul.

A plate of grilled tofu with cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and pine nuts, garnished with a mint leaf, on a bed of green lettuce.
Eat healthier with Ease

Top Rated by Home Cooks

Our Favorite Culinary Kitchen AI Tools

See why home cooks love CookbookAI! Discover how our tools are transforming kitchens with real stories and feedback from our users.

A woman in an apron smiles while using a tablet in a kitchen. Fresh vegetables, including tomatoes and lettuce, are on the counter.

Related Recipes

Leave the first comment

Recipe Rating