Tochitură

Tochitură is a traditional Romanian dish, typically made with a variety of meats, including pork, beef, and sometimes organ meats such as liver and heart. The meats are usually pan-fried and then simmered in a tomato-based sauce, often with the addition of wine. The dish is typically served with mămăligă, a cornmeal mush similar to polenta, and sometimes topped with a fried egg.

History

The origins of Tochitură are believed to date back to the rural areas of Romania, where it was a common dish among farmers and shepherds. The dish was traditionally made with whatever meats were available, often including game and offal. Over time, the recipe has evolved and regional variations have developed, but the basic ingredients and preparation methods have remained the same.

Preparation

To prepare Tochitură, the meats are first cut into small pieces and pan-fried until browned. The meat is then removed from the pan and set aside, and onions and garlic are sautéed in the same pan until softened. The meat is returned to the pan along with tomatoes, wine, and seasonings, and the mixture is simmered until the meat is tender and the flavors are well combined. The dish is typically served hot, often with mămăligă on the side.

Regional Variations

There are many regional variations of Tochitură throughout Romania. In Moldova, for example, the dish is often made with pork and served with a side of sheep's cheese. In Transylvania, it is common to include organ meats in the dish, and it is often served with a side of pickled vegetables. Despite these regional differences, the basic preparation method and main ingredients remain the same.

See Also

• Romanian cuisine
• Mămăligă
• List of stews