Rieder’s Bouja Recipe
Description:
Welcome to the heartwarming tradition of Rieder’s Bouja, a cherished culinary gem originating from the rich cultural tapestry of Poland and now a beloved tradition in Central Minnesota. Passed down through generations, this hearty soup has not only warmed countless souls but also served as a cornerstone for community gatherings and church fundraisers.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs stewing beef
- 6-8 stalks of celery
- 2 heads of cabbage
- 1 large onion
- 8 cups frozen carrots
- 6 cups lima beans
- 2 cans whole tomatoes
- 2 chickens (whole)
- 2 bags of dry pickling spice (for seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 210.9
- Fat: 14.2g
- Saturated Fat: 4.6g
- Cholesterol: 82.4mg
- Sodium: 80.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 3.3g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 1.2g
- Protein: 16.6g
Servings: 100
Yield: 10 gallons
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours
Instructions:
- Begin by placing the chickens and stewing beef in a large, heavy kettle, covering them with water, and bringing them to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow them to simmer until tender.
- Once the meats are tender, remove them from the kettle, and cut them into small, bite-sized chunks. Discard any excess fat and skin.
- In the same kettle with the broth, add the celery, cabbage, and onions. Allow them to boil until they are almost tender, infusing the broth with their flavors.
- Now, it’s time to add the remaining vegetables – frozen carrots, lima beans, and whole tomatoes – according to your taste preferences and desired thickness of the soup.
- After the vegetables have cooked together for a short while, reintroduce the meat back into the kettle. Let the soup simmer gently until the meat begins to break apart, infusing the broth with its rich flavors.
- Stir the bouja occasionally with a wooden paddle, ensuring that all the ingredients meld together harmoniously.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking, adjusting the flavors to achieve the perfect balance.
- Very Important Step: Take a strong cloth bag and fill it with the dry pickling spice, tying it firmly with string to prevent any spillage.
- Drop the spice bag into the simmering bouja, plunging it in and out periodically. Taste the soup as you go until it reaches the desired flavor profile, with hints of aromatic spices permeating throughout.
Enjoy the Heartwarming Tradition:
Rieder’s Bouja is not just a soup; it’s a testament to the unity of community and the warmth of shared traditions. Serve it up at gatherings, fundraisers, or simply enjoy a comforting bowl at home on a chilly winter evening. Let each spoonful transport you to the rustic kitchens of Poland and the welcoming embrace of Central Minnesota’s culinary heritage.
