African Food and Art

This blog explores the wisdom of African proverbs, the depth of folklore, the beauty of art, the stories of history, and the flavors of timeless African food recipes.

Pumpkin Sweetbreads South African Bredie Stew

Despite the name Sweetbreads are not sweet. Sweetbreads are offal meats or organ meats the thymus and pancreas from veal and lamb, beef and pork.

Pumpkin Sweetbread Bredie Stew Recipe

Sweetbreads refer to a type of offal meat, which includes organ meats from animals such as veal, lamb, beef, and pork. Specifically, sweetbreads are derived from the thymus gland and pancreas of these animals. The term sweetbread can be attributed to the historical use of the word sweet as a way to describe the tender and delicate nature of these organ meats. 

Sweetbreads are highly regarded in culinary traditions around the world for their unique texture and flavor. When properly prepared, they have a creamy and smooth consistency with a slightly nutty and earthy taste. Due to their rich flavor profile, sweetbreads are often featured in gourmet dishes and can be prepared in various ways, including sautéing, braising, or even deep-frying.

Pumpkin Sweetbreads Bredie Stew Recipe

Total time from start to finish 50 minutes

Sweetbreads are available from respectable butchers.

Ingredients
2 pounds veal sweetbreads soaked for two hours and rinsed well
1 cup canned puree pumpkin
1 cup any sliced mushrooms
1 small onion diced
1 cup sliced tomatoes
11/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoon butter
11/2 cup cream
4 cups water

Directions 
To prepare sweetbreads, first remove all the fat and then boil them in salted water for 20 minutes. Once cooked, remove any skin and cut the sweetbreads into medium-sized pieces. In a separate pan, melt a tablespoon of butter and add flour, onion, and tomatoes. Pour in water and cream and stir until it reaches boiling point. Add the sweetbreads, pumpkin, mushrooms, salt, and a pinch of pepper, then let it simmer for 15 minutes. Serve while hot.
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