Here’s a rich and comforting recipe for Pork Stew, perfect for a cozy dinner!
Hearty Pork Stew Recipe
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pork:
- Season the pork cubes generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the pork:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork cubes in batches, browning them on all sides.
- Remove the browned pork and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Build the base:
- Stir in the tomato paste and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Simmer the stew:
- Return the browned pork to the pot.
- Pour in the broth and add thyme and the bay leaf.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add vegetables:
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot.
- Continue simmering for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Tips for Customization:
- Add flavor depth: Stir in a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce when adding the broth.
- Vegetable variations: Use parsnips, sweet potatoes, or green beans for different flavors.
- Thicker stew: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Would you like ideas for sides or a slow-cooker version of this recipe?