Karkówka po Cygańsku Recipe: A Flavorful Polish Delight

Karkówka po Cygańsku, or “Gypsy-style Pork Neck,” is a classic Polish dish known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Combining tender pork neck with a medley of vegetables and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce, this recipe offers a comforting and flavorful experience. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Let’s dive into the steps to create this traditional masterpiece.

Ingredients
For the Pork:
1 kg pork neck (karkówka), sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
2 bell peppers (red and green), julienned
200g mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh parsley, chopped
A dollop of sour cream
Directions
Prepare the Pork:
Season the pork slices with sweet paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onions until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the bell peppers and mushrooms, cooking until they soften slightly.

Make the Sauce:
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth to the skillet. Mix well and season with marjoram, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Combine and Simmer:
Return the seared pork to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 40-50 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot with your choice of side dish.

Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Karkówka po Cygańsku is best enjoyed fresh with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad complements the dish perfectly.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the sauce if needed. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Variations
Spice it up: Add more chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
Meat Alternatives: Substitute pork neck with chicken thighs or beef chuck for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the pork with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, or use a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh.
Smoky Twist: Use smoked sausage slices in addition to or instead of the pork for a smoky flavor.