Pork breast stew

Pork Breast Stew: a delicious, comforting, and flavorful recipe! This stew is a classic dish that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients in a way that will make any meal special. Moreover, it is an easy recipe to prepare, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 800-900 g pork breast (choose a piece with some fat for a richer taste)
- 7-8 onions (preferably white or yellow onions for sweetness)
- 3 larger potatoes (red or white potatoes are best)
- 1-2 carrots (sweet carrots add a touch of flavor)
- 1 red bell pepper (for added color and texture)
- 4-5 tomatoes (ripe tomatoes are the most flavorful)
- 100 ml tomato and red pepper ketchup (for a hint of sweetness)
- 50 ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 bunch of dill and parsley (for added freshness)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- Thyme, 2-3 bay leaves, salt, and pepper (to enhance the flavors)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the pork breast
Start by cutting the pork breast into thicker slices, about 2-3 cm. This will help the meat stay tender during cooking. Season each slice with thyme and pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated.

2. Searing the meat
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the pork slices and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Do not overcrowd the pan; it’s better to sear them in two batches to ensure even browning. Once seared, remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, bell pepper, and diced carrots. Sauté them in the remaining oil for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavor of the stew.

4. Adding the wet ingredients
Add the ketchup, finely chopped herbs, and sugar, mixing well. Allow the vegetables to cook together for a few minutes so the flavors meld.

5. Cooking the stew
Return the seared meat to the skillet, ensuring it is well covered by the vegetable mixture. Add enough water to cover the meat and vegetables. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 50-60 minutes. This process will allow the meat to become tender and flavorful.

6. Adding the potatoes and tomatoes
After the cooking time has elapsed, add the peeled and larger diced potatoes. Slice the tomatoes and place them on top of the potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Add a little water if necessary, then cover again and let simmer for another 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

7. Serving
Once the stew is ready, serve it in deep plates, ensuring each portion contains meat, vegetables, and delicious sauce. You can garnish with fresh parsley leaves and a few slices of chili pepper for added color and flavor.

Useful tips:
- You can add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to vary the recipe.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can use a mixture of water with a tablespoon of cornstarch, added in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- This stew pairs perfectly with a side of polenta or fresh bread to savor the flavorful sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork breast is a good source of protein and contains essential vitamins like B6 and B12. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced meal.

Calories:
A serving of pork breast stew contains approximately 400-500 kcal, depending on the portion of meat and vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use beef instead of pork? Yes, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the stew spicier? Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes.
- Can it be preserved? Yes, the stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or can be frozen.

This pork breast stew is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that will bring you together with your loved ones. Enjoy!