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Studen

Pork trotters and meat simmered into a clear, garlicky aspic that sets into a trembling jelly — the other great jellied dish of the Russian feast.

⏱ 30 minPrep time
🔥 4 hr 30 minCook time
🍽 8Servings
🏷 DinnerCategory
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Studen

Studen is the rustic cousin of kholodets — a jellied meat set firm by its own natural gelatin, born from hours of patient simmering. Pork and beef cook down until the broth turns into a shimmering, savory aspic.

Cut into squares, doused with garlic, and served with horseradish and dark bread, studen is a cherished New Year’s tradition. It is food that demands time, and gives back the deepest comfort in return.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Put the meat, onion, carrots, bay leaves, and peppercorns in a large pot with the water.
  2. Bring to a boil, skim the foam, reduce to a gentle simmer, and cook for 4-5 hours until the meat is falling apart.
  3. Remove the meat, shred it, and strain the broth; season with salt.
  4. Stir the garlic into the broth and pour it over the meat in a deep dish.
  5. Refrigerate overnight until firmly set, then serve cold with horseradish.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Skim the broth diligently during the first hour for a clear, beautiful aspic. If the jelly doesn't set firmly, dissolve a packet of gelatin in warm broth and stir it in before chilling.

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Recipe details

Prep30 min
Cook4 hr 30 min
Servings8
CategoryDinner
PublishedAugust 17, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →