Embark on a culinary journey to Bulgaria, where rich traditions and exquisite flavors converge in the beloved dish known as Selsko Meso. A true celebration of Bulgarian rural cuisine, this hearty recipe encapsulates the essence of the country's culinary heritage. Originating from the picturesque villages, Selsko Meso, translated as "Village Meat," combines succulent meats with a medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a touch of smokiness, creating a dish that resonates with warmth and authenticity. Join us in uncovering the secrets behind this timeless Bulgarian delicacy and bring the heartwarming flavors of the village to your table.

Ingredients:

• 500g pork or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), diced
• 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup sunflower oil
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

1-Season the pork or chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika.

2-In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the sunflower oil over medium-high heat.

Sear the Meat:Add the seasoned meat to the hot oil and brown on all sides until golden. Remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside.

Saute the Vegetables:

1-In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent.

2-Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3-Stir in the diced bell peppers and sliced mushrooms, cooking until they start to soften.

Add Tomatoes and Spices:

1-Incorporate the diced tomatoes into the skillet, allowing them to release their juices.

2-Sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano over the vegetables and stir to combine.

Bring It All Together:

1-Return the seared meat to the skillet, mixing it with the sautéed vegetables.

2-Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients.

3-Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the flavors meld.

Serve:

1-Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

2-Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy:Serve this rustic Bulgarian Selsko Meso over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Embrace the rich tapestry of Bulgarian flavors in this delightful dish that captures the essence of village life.

Nutritional Values

It's challenging to provide exact nutritional values without specific product details, as nutritional content can vary. However, I can offer approximate values based on generic ingredients. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual values may differ:

500g Pork or Chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces:

• Calories: 1100-1200 kcal
• Protein: 100-120g
• Fat: 70-80g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, supporting muscle growth and overall health.

200g Mushrooms, sliced:

• Calories: 40-50 kcal
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g

Benefits: Low in calories and fat, high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They may boost immune function and provide anti-inflammatory properties.

2 Bell Peppers (Red and Green), diced:

• Calories: 50-60 kcal
• Protein: 2-3g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g

Benefits: High in vitamin C, A, and antioxidants. Supports immune health, skin health, and may aid in preventing certain chronic diseases.

3 Ripe Tomatoes, diced:

• Calories: 60-70 kcal
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g

Benefits: Excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene. Contributes to heart health, skin health, and may have anti-cancer properties.

1 Large Onion, finely chopped:

• Calories: 60-70 kcal
• Protein: 1-2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Known for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, may support heart health.

3 Cloves Garlic, minced:

• Calories: 10-15 kcal
• Protein: 0.5-1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2-3g

Benefits: Rich in allicin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. May contribute to heart health and immune support.

1/4 Cup Sunflower Oil:

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 56g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Contains vitamin E, supporting skin health and acting as an antioxidant.

1 Cup Chicken or Vegetable Broth:

• Calories: 5-10 kcal
• Protein: 0-1g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g

Benefits: Hydrating and provides essential minerals. Chicken broth may contain collagen, supporting joint and skin health.

1 Teaspoon Sweet Paprika:

• Calories: 5-10 kcal
• Protein: 0-1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, including vitamin C and carotenoids. May have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme:

• Calories: 5-10 kcal
• Protein: 0-1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils. May have antimicrobial properties and contribute to respiratory health.

1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano:

• Calories: 5-10 kcal
• Protein: 0-1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and essential oils. May have antimicrobial properties and support digestion.

Salt and Pepper to Taste:

• Negligible caloric content

Benefits: Provides flavor enhancement. Salt contains essential electrolytes, while black pepper may have antioxidant properties.

Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish):

• Calories: 5-10 kcal
• Protein: 0-1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins K, C, and A. Acts as a natural breath freshener, may have anti-inflammatory properties, and support bone health.

Please note that these values are approximations, and actual nutritional content can vary based on specific brands and types of ingredients used.