Pork Stew with Leeks and Olives

Winter stew is a dish that brings warmth and comfort on cold days. Start by heating a few tablespoons of olive oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Choose beef or pork, cut into cubes of about 3 cm, and add it to the hot oil. It will brown nicely, forming a delicious crust that will add flavor to the entire dish. When the meat is well browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

In the same pot, add a large onion, finely chopped. Let the onion sauté until it becomes transparent and starts to soften. The aroma of the sautéed onion will fill the kitchen, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients. Then, take a fresh leek, clean it well, and cut only the white part into large pieces. Add the leek to the pot and let it sauté with the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and releases its sweet aroma.

After the leek has softened, add the browned meat back into the pot. Also add a few green or black olives, depending on your preferences. These will provide a salty note and a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the vegetables. Cover the ingredients with a cup of water, then season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and a teaspoon of sweet paprika for vibrant color and delicious taste.

Now it's time to transfer the pot to the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let the stew bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, allowing the meat and leek to meld well, absorbing each other's flavors. After this time, remove the pot and add 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing well to combine all the ingredients.

Return the pot to the oven for another five minutes to allow the tomato paste to thicken and integrate perfectly into the stew. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped dill on top, which will add a touch of freshness and an extra layer of flavor. Serve the stew hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or mashed potatoes. This winter stew is not only nourishing but also pleasant to taste, perfect for enjoying in the company of loved ones. Enjoy your meal!