Polish Bigos – The Ultimate $4 Hunter’s Stew That Will Fill You Up for Days

Hi! I’m Kate, the face behind KateFi.com—a blog all about making life easier and more affordable.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you). See our official affiliate disclosure for more details.

Polish Bigos, also known as “Hunter’s Stew,” is a hearty, flavorful dish made with cabbage, sausage, and spices. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s both cheap and filling. And the best part? You can make a big batch for under $4!

🌟 Why You’ll Love Bigos

• Ultra Cheap: Costs less than $1 per serving.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with cabbage, sausage, and savory flavors.
• Easy to Make: Uses affordable, common ingredients.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!

Want to learn more about the history of Bigos? Check out this article from Culture.pl.

📋 Ingredients (Serves 4, Cost: $3.85)

• 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded ($0.75)
• 1/2 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced ($1.50)
• 1 onion, chopped ($0.25)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.10)
• 1 can of sauerkraut (14 oz) ($0.75)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste ($0.10)
• 1 teaspoon paprika ($0.10)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Negligible)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ($0.30)

Want to try a more authentic version? Check out this recipe from The Spruce Eats.

🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned.
2. Add Onions & Garlic: Add onions and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
3. Add Cabbage & Sauerkraut: Stir in shredded cabbage and sauerkraut. Cook until cabbage begins to soften.
4. Add Tomato Paste & Spices: Add tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Simmer: Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve Hot: Serve with rye bread or boiled potatoes for a complete meal.

For a more traditional Bigos, try adding mushrooms or leftover meats. Learn more about Polish cuisine from Poland.travel.

📊 Cost Breakdown

🌟 Tips for Perfect Bigos

• Use smoked sausage for an authentic smoky flavor.
• Add leftover meats like pork or beef for a richer taste.
• Let the stew sit overnight for an even deeper flavor.

For more Polish recipes, visit Polish Housewife.

📖 More Budget-Friendly Recipes You’ll Love

• The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Financial Independence – No Budgeting Required
• 15 Easy Ways to Save Money on Groceries Without Sacrificing Quality
• Extreme Frugality: The Wildest Ways People Save Money and What Actually Works

📌 Final Thoughts

Polish Bigos is an incredible comfort dish that delivers both flavor and value. Make a big pot, and you’ll have enough to feed your family for days.

For more cheap and delicious recipes, keep visiting KateFi.com!