Pork Stew

Pork stew is a traditional dish full of flavor, perfect for family meals or for moments when you want to savor a piece of culinary tradition. This recipe takes us back to winter days, when the rich aroma of pork, onions, and spices blend together in a culinary dance, bringing warmth and comfort. In this guide, I will walk you step by step through the process of preparing this delicious stew, providing you with useful tips and essential information to achieve a perfect result.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork (ideally from the shoulder or back for tender texture)
- 1 tablespoon lard (or oil, if you prefer)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons paprika paste (this adds intense flavor and beautiful color)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 100 ml milk (can also be plant-based milk for a lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Make sure to use a sharp knife for even cuts. This will help the meat cook evenly.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, heat the lard over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Here, it is important to stir constantly to prevent the onion from burning.

3. Adding the meat: Once the onion is ready, add the pork cubes. Stir well to coat the meat with the flavorful lard. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and let simmer on low heat for 40 minutes. It is essential not to add water, as the meat will release enough liquid.

4. Checking the consistency: After 40 minutes, check if there is enough liquid from the meat. If you find it too dry, you can add a little water to achieve a moister texture.

5. Thickening the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the flour with the milk until you get a smooth paste. Add this mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This will help thicken the sauce and give the dish a creamy consistency.

6. Finishing the stew: Finally, add the sour cream and minced garlic, stirring to integrate the flavors. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serving: Pork stew is usually served with warm polenta and pickles, which adds a pleasant and fresh contrast. The polenta will absorb the delicious sauce, while the pickles will balance the richness of the meat.

Useful tips:
- If you want to enhance the flavor of the stew, you can add other spices like sweet or hot paprika, thyme, or bay leaves.
- For a healthier version, you can use lean pork and low-fat sour cream.
- This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and becomes even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to develop.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork is a good source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals like zinc and iron. Flour and milk provide carbohydrates and calcium, while polenta serves as a fiber-rich option when made from whole cornmeal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use beef instead of pork? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using beef, but the cooking time will be longer.
- How can I make the stew spicier? You can add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes while sautéing the onion.
- What other side dishes go well with pork stew? Besides polenta, you can also serve mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to balance the meal.

Pork stew is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings the family together, evoking memories and unforgettable moments. I encourage you to put your personal touch on the recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!