Pork shoulder in tomato sauce

Pork Shoulder in Tomato Sauce: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of cooking, where flavors blend with love and patience! Today, I will present you with a recipe for pork shoulder in tomato sauce, a savory combination that will delight your senses. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. The pork shoulder, with its juicy texture, pairs perfectly with the tomato sauce, and the final result is a dish that will make you want to repeat the culinary experience.

A Bit of History

Pork shoulder is a popular choice in many culinary cultures due to its versatility and rich flavor. Found in various dishes around the world, pork is often associated with festive meals but can easily be adapted for everyday cooking. Tomato sauce, on the other hand, comes from fresh or canned tomatoes, a fundamental base in Mediterranean cuisine and beyond, adding a note of acidity and sweetness to dishes.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg pork shoulder (choose a piece with a bit of fat for a richer taste)
- 1 can of tomatoes (preferably whole tomatoes in their own juice for a thicker sauce)
- 300 ml red wine (a quality wine will significantly enhance the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh, if you have it on hand)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 head of garlic (2 cloves finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by cutting the pork shoulder into strips about 3-4 cm wide. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Season the strips of meat with salt, pepper, and basil. These spices will amplify the meat's flavor and make the final dish truly delicious.

Once you have seasoned the meat, add the red wine (200 ml) and the crushed garlic. Mix well to ensure that each piece of meat is coated with the marinade. Let the meat marinate for at least an hour. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it softer and tastier.

Assembling the Dish

After the meat has marinated, preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. While the oven is heating, grease a baking dish with butter, making sure it is well covered. Place the strips of pork in the greased dish, taking care not to overlap the meat to allow for even cooking.

Open the can of tomatoes and add the contents to the dish over the meat. Also add the remaining wine (100 ml), bay leaf, salt, pepper, and the finely chopped garlic cloves. Gently mix to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Baking in the Oven

Now that everything is assembled, place the dish in the oven for about 50 minutes. It is important to check the meat from time to time to ensure it does not dry out. If desired, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of cooking to retain moisture.

After 50 minutes, check if the pork shoulder is tender and well-cooked. The meat should easily pull apart with a fork and be juicy. The tomato sauce should have thickened and have a rich flavor, perfect for accompanying the meat.

Serving the Dish

Pork shoulder in tomato sauce is served warm, alongside a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. A fresh salad will perfectly complement the meal, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors. If you want to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh basil on top before serving.

Practical Tips

- Choose a piece of meat with a moderate amount of fat to achieve a juicy texture.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, to vary the flavors.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator; the dish will keep well for 2-3 days, and the flavor will become even better.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted with beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.

2. What wine should I use?
A quality dry red wine will enhance the flavor of the sauce. Avoid very sweet wines.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Of course! Use about 1 kg of ripe tomatoes, diced.

4. How can I improve the sauce?
Add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes or a few olives for a Mediterranean taste.

5. What side dish pairs best?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta are all excellent options, and a fresh green salad will add a boost of vitality to the meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of pork shoulder in tomato sauce contains about 450 calories, depending on the specific portion and ingredients used. Pork is a good source of protein, B vitamins, iron, and zinc, essential for the body’s health. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! With a little patience and love, you will create a delicious dish that will impress anyone. Enjoy your meal!