Something You Should Eat: Bigos from Szalas

Something You Should Eat: Bigos from Szalas

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Here we go, locked firmly in the grip of another Chicago winter, spending as much time as possible trying to stay warm.  Granted, it’s not exactly Antarctica (or Anchorage), but we have plenty of chilly days and nights to deal with until April.  This time of year, I spend as much time as possible seeking out those soul-satisfying, rib-sticking, body-thawing dishes as possible.  Do yourself a favor and head to the Archer Heights neighborhood near Midway Airport, and head into the Alpine ski lodge that is Szalas (SCHA-wahs).  They specialize in Polish Highlander cuisine (think hunting provisions), which would naturally include bigos (BEE-goes): a thick, fortifying stew of smoked pork, ham, cabbage and red wine, among other Eastern European staples.  Pair it with a hoppy Polish Zywiec beer or glass of red wine, and you’ll be drifting off to sleep in no time.