Dill stew

Dill stew is a classic recipe, full of flavor, that combines succulent meat with the unmistakable aroma of fresh dill. This comforting dish, perfect for family meals, has deep roots in culinary tradition and is often associated with warm and joyful moments. I will guide you step by step in making this delicacy, providing you with useful tips and interesting information about ingredients and cooking techniques.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g pork (you can use shoulder or leg for a more tender texture)
- 3 medium onions (white onion gives a sweet taste, but you can also try red onion for a more intense note)
- 5 bunches of fresh dill (dill adds a fresh aroma and a vibrant look to your dish)
- 1 lemon (for a splash of acidity that will balance the taste)
- 2 teaspoons of flour (helps thicken the sauce but can be omitted for a lighter version)
- 3 tablespoons of broth (for an extra splash of color and flavor)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can opt for olive oil for a more refined taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the meat well under cold running water. Drying it with a paper towel is essential, as it will help achieve a nice crust during cooking. Cut the meat into cubes of about 3-4 cm so that it cooks evenly.

2. Chopping the onion
Peel and finely chop the onion. The onion will add a sweet taste and an aromatic base to your dish.

3. Sautéing the meat and onion
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meat and chopped onion, stirring frequently. Cook for 10 minutes until the meat changes color and the onion becomes translucent. This step is crucial for developing the base flavors of the dish.

4. Adding water
After the meat and onion have sautéed, add a cup of hot water, stirring well to release all the flavors from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

5. Preparing the dill and potatoes
Wash the dill and chop it into pieces of about 2 cm. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thick slices, about 1 cm. These will add substance to your dish.

6. Adding the final ingredients
After 20 minutes, add the dill and potato slices to the pot. Top with water so that the ingredients are covered. Let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes or until the potatoes become soft.

7. Thickening the sauce
Remove the potatoes from the pot and keep them warm. In a small bowl, mix the flour with the broth and a little cold water, then add the mixture to the pot. Taste and add salt and pepper to your preference. Also add the lemon slices, which will bring a note of freshness. Continue cooking on low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to rise to the surface.

8. Serving
Once the sauce is ready, place the potatoes on plates and pour the dill stew over them. You can garnish with a few sprigs of fresh dill for an attractive look.

Practical tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for pork with a little fat, as this will add juiciness to the dish. You can replace pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian recipe, you can use mushrooms or tofu instead of meat. Cook the mushrooms until golden for a rich flavor.
- Varied flavors: Add a diced bell pepper or carrots to diversify the dish and add color.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a summer salad or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional benefits

Dill stew is a good source of protein due to the pork, while dill adds essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and vitamin A. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which will give you energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace dill with another herb?
Of course! Parsley or basil are excellent alternatives, but they have a different flavor profile.

2. Is dill stew suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the stew, but it is recommended to store it without potatoes, as they may spoil upon thawing.

3. What drinks pair well with the stew?
A dry white wine or a cold mint tea are excellent options to accompany this meal.

Conclusion

Dill stew is a simple and comforting recipe, ideal for bringing the family together around the table. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and tradition of this dish. Don't forget to share the final result with your loved ones and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!