Grandma’s Schaschlik Stew – Hearty, Flavorful, and Comforting!

Grandma’s Schaschlik Stew is a rich, savory dish packed with tender meat, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a deliciously spiced tomato-based sauce. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering a bold taste that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Recipe Overview

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700 g) pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups (500 ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
• 3 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Optional: 1-2 sausages (like bratwurst), sliced for added flavor

Instructions

Brown the Meat:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes in batches, searing them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Toss in the chopped bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Build the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor. Add the vinegar, sugar, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and chili flakes if using. Mix well.

Simmer the Stew:
Return the browned pork to the pot. Pour in the diced tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Optional Additions:
If adding sausages, stir them in during the last 20 minutes of cooking to infuse extra flavor into the stew.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with fresh crusty bread, rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the rich sauce.
• Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing side.

Tips & Variations

• Meat Variations: Swap pork for chicken thighs, beef, or even lamb if preferred.
• Make It Spicier: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Flavor Boost: A splash of red wine added before simmering adds depth to the sauce.

This hearty Schaschlik Stew is a nostalgic dish, bursting with warmth and rich flavors—just like Grandma used to make! Perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting, satisfying meal.

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