Hunter's Stew (Bigos)
Hunter's Stew, or Bigos, is a hearty, slow-cooked Polish stew traditionally made with a variety of meats (like pork, sausage, and sometimes game), sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and dried mushrooms. It's a staple of Polish cuisine, often associated with holidays and family gatherings, and is known for its rich, complex flavors that develop over time.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Bigos is a high-protein and high-fat dish due to its meat content, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the cabbage and sauerkraut. It's a good source of fiber, iron, and B vitamins, and a typical serving can range from 400 to 600 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Vitamin C | 35 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 250 mcg RAE |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
Per 1 cup (250 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Bigos is often called a 'hunter's meal' because it was historically made with game meat and could be reheated and improved over several days, making it ideal for long hunting trips. Nutritionally, the fermentation of sauerkraut adds probiotics, which can support gut health, making it a uniquely beneficial comfort food.
