Holodets (Ukrainian Aspic)
Jun 12
5 min read
No comments
A traditional Ukrainian dish made with meat, vegetables, and gelatin, served chilled.
Holodets, also known as Ukrainian Aspic, is a traditional dish that is popular in Ukrainian cuisine. It is made by simmering meat, such as pork or beef, with vegetables and spices until tender. The cooked meat is then strained, and the broth is mixed with gelatin to create a jelly-like consistency. The meat and vegetables are placed in a mold, and the broth is poured over them. The dish is chilled until the gelatin sets, resulting in a savory and jiggly aspic. Holodets is typically served sliced and garnished with fresh herbs. It is a popular appetizer during festive occasions and celebrations in Ukraine.
Ingredients
- Pork or beef — 1 kg, bone-in
- Carrots — 2 medium, peeled and chopped
- Onion — 1 large, peeled and quartered
- Garlic — 2 cloves, minced
- Bay leaves — 2
- Gelatin — 20 grams
- Salt — 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper — 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Fresh herbs — For garnish
Directions
1. In a large pot, place the pork or beef, carrots, onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Add enough water to cover the ingredients.
2. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
3. Remove the meat from the pot and strain the broth. Discard the vegetables and bay leaves.
4. Shred the meat into small pieces and place them in a mold or loaf pan.
5. In a separate bowl, dissolve the gelatin in cold water according to the package instructions.
6. Pour the gelatin mixture into the strained broth and stir well to combine.
7. Pour the broth-gelatin mixture over the meat in the mold, ensuring it covers the meat completely.
8. Allow the holodets to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.
9. To serve, dip the mold in hot water for a few seconds to loosen the holodets. Invert the mold onto a serving plate and gently remove the holodets.
10. Slice the holodets and garnish with fresh herbs.
11. Enjoy the chilled and flavorful holodets as an appetizer or part of a festive meal!