Name: Istrian Yota
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-6H4M37S
Total time: PT-486222H59M37S
Cuisine: Croatian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) dried white beans (cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight 1/2 lb (225g) smoked pork ribs or smoked sausage (or bacon) 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 1/2 butternut squash, peeled and cubed 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed (or fresh cabbage if preferred) 1 tablespoon olive oil 6 cups water or vegetable broth 1 bay leaf 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon paprika Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Istrian Yota is a dish that brings comfort and depth with its combination of tender beans, tangy sauerkraut, and savory pork or smoked meats. The flavors meld together beautifully in a thick, hearty broth that is perfect for chilly days. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and very satisfying. The best part? It’s incredibly flexible—you can adapt it to your preferences by adjusting the meat or adding extra vegetables. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as a warming side, Yota will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight
1/2 lb (225g) smoked pork ribs or smoked sausage (alternatively, use bacon or fresh pork)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed (or use fresh cabbage if preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 cups water or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. If you’re using canned beans, just drain and rinse them as well. Set aside.
Cook the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked pork ribs, sausage, or bacon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Add the vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, sauerkraut, and soaked beans to the pot, stirring to combine. Add the bay leaf, thyme, paprika, and salt and pepper. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer: Once the stew is boiling, reduce the heat to low and return the cooked meat to the pot. Cover and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans and potatoes are tender, and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
Finish and serve: Once the Yota is ready, remove the bay leaf and discard. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It’s typically enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Total time: 2-2.5 hours (including soaking time for beans)

Variations

Vegetarian Yota: Omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version of this dish. You can add extra vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
Spicy Yota: Add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish for a spicy kick.
Add extra herbs: Experiment with herbs such as rosemary, sage, or marjoram to complement the flavors of the dish.
Use fresh cabbage: If sauerkraut isn’t available, use fresh cabbage as a substitute. You can sauté it with the onions and garlic to bring out its flavor before adding it to the stew.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Yota can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the stew on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen it if it thickens too much. Yota often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans instead of dried beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. The cooking time will be much shorter if using canned beans.

2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Istrian Yota in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic in a separate pan, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, Istrian Yota freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.

4. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?

Yes, you can use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut. Shred the cabbage and add it to the pot with the other vegetables. If you use fresh cabbage, consider adding a small amount of vinegar to give it the tangy flavor that sauerkraut provides.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, incorporate chili peppers (fresh or dried) or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the stew while it’s simmering. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

6. What meat can I use in place of smoked pork or sausage?

You can use other smoked meats, such as smoked ham hocks, smoked turkey, or bacon. Alternatively, fresh pork shoulder or chicken can also be used if you prefer a lighter option.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, Istrian Yota is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that any broth or meat you use is free of gluten.

8. Can I make Istrian Yota without potatoes?

Yes, you can omit the potatoes if you prefer a lighter dish. You can add more beans or vegetables such as carrots or parsnips as a substitute for the potatoes.

9. How do I know when the beans are fully cooked?

The beans should be tender and soft when they’re fully cooked. Taste a few beans to check for doneness. If they’re still firm, continue simmering the stew until they soften.

10. How do I make sure the Yota is not too salty?

If you’re using salty ingredients like smoked meats or store-bought broth, be cautious with the amount of salt you add. You can always taste and adjust the seasoning toward the end of cooking.

Conclusion

Istrian Yota is a soul-warming dish that combines the comforting flavors of beans, sauerkraut, and savory smoked meats. It’s a traditional Croatian stew that’s perfect for colder months and can be customized with various ingredients depending on your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or preparing it as a meal for yourself, Yota is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table. This simple yet flavorful dish is a true representation of Istrian culinary traditions and is a must-try for any food lover!

Istrian Yota