Best 2 Košeliena Lithuanian Chopped Meat In Aspic Recipes

Koeliena, the national dish of Lithuania, is a classic example of chopped meat in aspic. This dish consists of ground meat, usually pork or beef, hard-boiled eggs, and vegetables suspended in a savory gelatinous broth. It is typically served cold, sliced into individual portions, and garnished with fresh herbs and vegetables. Koeliena is often served as an appetizer or main course and is a staple at Lithuanian celebrations and gatherings.

In this article, we will explore various recipes for Koeliena, ranging from traditional to modern interpretations, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful preparation. We will cover variations using different types of meat, vegetables, and spices, as well as creative presentation ideas to elevate the dish for special occasions or everyday meals. Whether you are a home cook looking to master a Lithuanian classic or a culinary enthusiast seeking to expand your culinary repertoire, these recipes will guide you in creating a delicious and visually appealing Koeliena that will impress your family and friends.

Let's cook with our recipes!

KOšELIENA (LITHUANIAN CHOPPED MEAT IN ASPIC)

Košeliena (Lithuanian Chopped Meat in Aspic) image

Also called "šaltiena", but košeliena is what I grew up calling it. I love it as a light meal on a hot day. Traditionally served as part of a cold table. Sliced thin, it makes a tasty sandwich on rye bread. Traditional accompaniments are horseradish, a splash of vinegar or a lemon wedge. This is an updated version that includes chicken and utilizes the crockpot. The gentle cooking of the crockpot keeps the broth quite clear. Prep time does not include chilling.

Provided by duonyte

Categories Lunch/Snacks

Time 9h45m

Yield 3 lbs., 10-14 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

2 lbs pig's feet, halved or quartered
1 lb chicken thighs or 1 lb chicken breast, bone in
1 tablespoon coarse salt
1 -2 bay leaf
6 -10 peppercorns
1 medium onion, peeled but left whole
1 medium carrot, cleaned and cut into 4 pieces

Steps:

Fill a large pot with cold water and bring it to the boil. Add the meat, let it come to a boil again and let it boil vigorously for three to four minutes. Pour into a colander and rinse with cold water. (This helps the broth stay clear). Refrigerate the chicken.
Place the pork and all remaining ingredients in the crockpot and cover with cold water. Cook on HIGH for six to eight hours. The pigs's feet should be quite tender - you should be able to cut through them with a spoon.
Add the chicken and continue to cook on HIGH for another three hours.
Remove the meat. Remove the skin and bones from chicken, shred the meat and put it in a large bowl. Remove the bones from the pig's feet - there are a lot of small ones - and julienne or finely dice the meat and skin. Mix together with the chicken.
Remove and discard the vegetables and bay leaf. If a skin has formed, skim and discard.
Divide the meat among three or four shallow bowls. Ladle the remaining broth over the meat until it is covered. Cover with plastic and let stand in the refrigerator.
Scrape off the fat that has risen to the top of the dish. Skim the fat off the remaining broth. Ladle additional broth over the dish to create an aspic layer.
To serve, cut into squares or wedges and serve with horseradish or a lemon wedge. Horseradish cream (mayonnaise-based dressing) is also good with this, esp. if used in a sandwich.
Note: You can make this is one larger dish, just make sure that it's shallow - no more than about 2 inches deep.
Note2: This will be good for about a week. It does not freeze.
Note3: The crockpot method results in leftover broth. It is excellent in a pea soup, cabbage soup, or the like. Also, the nutritional information is misleading, as the fat cooks out and is discarded.

CHOPPED MEAT AND BEANS

Chopped Meat and Beans image

This is a simple, homey recipe passed down from my grandmother. She made it with ground beef but it can be made with any ground meat you like. I make it exclusively now with ground turkey.

Provided by LarryG56

Categories < 60 Mins

Time 45m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

2 lbs ground meat, of choice
4 slices bacon
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 red pepper, chopped
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 (55 ounce) can baked beans (recommend Bush's)
8 ounces tomato sauce

Steps:

Saute the bacon in a large pan over medium heat. Remove and drain on paper towel.
Saute the chopped meat, onion, peppers and garlic in the bacon renderings until the meat is browned.
Chop the bacon into 1/2 inch bits and add to the meat.
Add the tomato sauce and beans.
Reduce the heat, cover and simmer 20-30 minutes.
Serve over white rice.

Tips:

For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality ground beef or pork. You can also use a combination of the two.
Be sure to chop the meat finely. This will help it cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
Don't overcook the meat. It should be cooked through but still tender and juicy.
Season the meat well. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Let the meat cool completely before adding it to the aspic. This will help prevent the aspic from becoming cloudy.
Use a flavorful broth for the aspic. You can use chicken broth, beef broth, or vegetable broth.
Add some vegetables to the aspic for color and flavor. You can use carrots, celery, onions, or peas.
Chill the aspic for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving. This will allow it to set properly.

Conclusion:

Koeliena is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. It's perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight meal to a special holiday dinner. So next time you're looking for a new and exciting dish to try, give koeliena a try. You won't be disappointed!