Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 600 g minced meat (beef, pork, or mixed)
• Salt, pepper, dry garlic, paprika (to taste)
• 1-2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

For the Vegetable Layers:

• Approx. 600 g potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 large pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ⅓ tablespoon Georgian spicy adjika (optional)
• Salt, basil (to taste)

Additional Ingredients:

• 150-200 ml water
• Vegetable oil (for frying and greasing)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 6
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 320 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Rustic Meat and Vegetable Casserole epitomizes timeless cooking with its focus on layering simple ingredients to create complex flavors. Casseroles have long been a staple in kitchens worldwide due to their practicality, versatility, and ability to feed a crowd. This particular recipe reflects traditional Eastern European and Georgian influences, blending hearty vegetables and robust spices.

What makes this dish special is its adaptability. You can experiment with different types of meat, vegetables, or seasonings to make it your own. Its timelessness lies in its balance of nutrition, flavor, and the sheer joy it brings to the dinner table. It’s a dish that connects generations, carrying the spirit of home-cooked meals that are as nourishing for the soul as they are for the body.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, dry garlic, and paprika.
2. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Peel and slice the potatoes into 3-4 mm thick rounds. Set them aside in cold water to prevent browning.
2. Slice the onion into thin rings.
3. Peel and chop the carrot into small pieces.
4. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a deep baking dish with vegetable oil.
2. Begin layering the casserole:
   • First layer: Arrange half of the potato slices evenly on the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
   • Second layer: Spread the seasoned minced meat mixture over the potatoes, pressing gently to create an even layer.
   • Third layer: Add the sliced onions, carrots, and bell peppers over the meat layer.
   • Fourth layer: Top with the remaining potato slices, creating a final layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with water and the optional Georgian adjika.
2. Add a pinch of salt and basil, stirring until the mixture is well-combined.
3. Pour the sauce evenly over the assembled casserole. The liquid should cover about ⅔ of the dish to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during cooking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
3. After 1 hour, remove the foil and increase the temperature to 200°C (400°F). Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top layer.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
2. Slice into portions and serve warm with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g

Tips for Making the Perfect Casserole

1. Season Generously: Properly seasoning each layer ensures a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
2. Even Slicing: Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices, which helps them cook evenly.
3. Adjust Liquids: If the casserole seems too dry during baking, add a splash of water or broth.
4. Experiment with Spices: While adjika adds a unique kick, you can substitute it with chili flakes or smoked paprika for a similar effect.
5. Pre-Cook Hard Vegetables: If you’re using firmer vegetables like parsnips, pre-cook them slightly to ensure they soften during baking.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

What can I substitute for adjika?

If you don’t have adjika, a mix of chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika makes a good alternative.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
2. Freezing: Freeze individual portions for easy reheating. Wrap tightly in foil or use freezer-safe containers.
3. Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion

This Rustic Meat and Vegetable Casserole is a culinary celebration of comfort and simplicity. Each layer brings its unique texture and flavor, from the savory meat filling to the tender potatoes and vibrant vegetables. The addition of spices like adjika elevates the dish, offering a hint of heat that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

The casserole’s enduring appeal lies in its versatility. It’s a meal that adapts to what you have on hand, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Its rich, hearty nature ensures everyone at the table leaves satisfied, while its simplicity keeps the cook stress-free.

As you savor this timeless dish, take a moment to appreciate its roots in rustic cooking traditions. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace, a testament to the beauty of home-cooked food that nourishes both the body and the soul. Whether you’re sharing it with family or saving portions for later, this casserole is bound to become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire.