Sauerkraut and Bean Stew (Slovenian Jota)

Step 1

Place the potatoes in a small pot and fill with enough cold water to cover them with an additional few inches. Bring to a boil and check on them occasionally, so the water doesn’t boil over.

Step 2

While the potatoes are cooking, add the olive oil and onions to a large pot on medium heat and saute for a couple of minutes. You want them to be golden but not browned.

Step 3

Add in the garlic and saute for a further 1-2 minutes.

Step 4

Add the bay leaves, tomato paste, smoked paprika, sauerkraut and 2 cups / 500ml water (or stock). Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Step 5

At this point, the potatoes should be cooked. Check by putting a knife through one. It should go straight through. Drain the water and roughly mash them with a fork.

Step 6

Add them to the large pot with another 2 cups / 500ml of water (or stock) and mix well. Let it simmer for 15 minutes with the lid askew to retain the liquid.

Step 7

Add in the cooked beans, stir and simmer for a further 20 minutes.

Step 8

At the end, freshly grind some pepper to taste and add salt if needed. Remove the bay leaves and serve.