Pork Muscle with Bell Pepper, Prepared in Portuguese Style

To prepare a delicious garlic and pepper marinated meat, we will start with the essential step of crushing the garlic. Use a knife or a garlic press to turn a few cloves of garlic into a paste. Add a tablespoon of salt and a tablespoon of olive oil, then mix the ingredients well until you achieve a creamy paste. This mixture will add an intense flavor to the meat. Once you have the garlic paste, add a few peppercorns and transfer everything to a larger bowl where you will marinate the meat.

For the marinade, choose pieces of pork or chicken that will tenderize well during cooking. Using a meat mallet, gently pound each piece to make it thinner, which will help the flavors penetrate. Place the meat in the bowl with the garlic paste, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours so that the flavors infuse into the meat.

After marinating, heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the meat with the marinade, ensuring it is laid out evenly in the pan. Let it brown for a few minutes on each side, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. When the meat is nicely browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and sauté for 2-5 minutes or until it becomes soft but still crunchy. This will add a pop of color and texture to the dish. Once the pepper is ready, return the meat to the skillet, pour in the white wine, and let everything simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

When the meat is well-cooked and juicy, transfer all contents to a serving platter. Squeeze ½ lemon over the top to add a fresh and tangy note that will balance the rich flavors. Cut the remaining lemons into thin slices and garnish the edge of the platter for an appealing and appetizing look. This dish is served warm, perfectly alongside a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables. Enjoy it with your loved ones!