Potato stew

Pork and Potato Stew - A Comforting Recipe for Chilly Days

In a hectic world where time seems to fly, there is nothing more comforting than a warm stew, full of flavors and tradition. This pork and potato stew recipe brings not only joy to the table but also cherished memories. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a family meal or to impress friends at dinner. Get ready to be carried away on waves of taste!

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

Ingredients:

- 1 kg pork belly
- 1 kg potatoes
- 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 onions
- 3 green onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 stalk of celery
- 2 carrots
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- A pinch of hot pepper paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour

Nutritional information:

This stew offers a balanced meal, rich in protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and vitamins from the vegetables. One serving (approximately 250g) contains about 350 calories, making it a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.

Preparing the stew:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the pork well and cutting it into medium-sized cubes. This will help the meat cook evenly. Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables: slice the onion thinly, cut the carrots into rounds, dice the bell pepper, and slice the celery. Peel, wash, and cube the potatoes.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the bell pepper and carrots, continuing to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables become slightly soft.

3. Adding the meat: Place the cubes of pork over the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add a cup of water, cover the pot with a lid, and let the meat cook on low heat for about 30 minutes. This will ensure that the meat becomes tender and juicy.

4. Preparing the potatoes: After the meat has cooked, add the cubed potatoes. Fill with water, making sure not to add too much, as you do not want a soup. Then, add salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and hot pepper paste. Gently mix and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

5. Finalizing the stew: Once the potatoes are cooked, dissolve the cornstarch or flour in a little cold water and add the mixture to the pot to thicken the sauce. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley and dill. These fresh herbs provide a vibrant taste and beautiful color.

Serving suggestions:

The pork and potato stew pairs perfectly with pickles, such as pickled cucumbers, which add a note of freshness and acidity. You can accompany this dish with a summer salad for a crunchy and refreshing contrast. If you want to impress your guests, a slice of homemade bread will perfectly complete the meal.

Variations:

If you wish to explore different flavors, you can add mushrooms when sautéing the vegetables or use beef or chicken instead of pork. A delicious vegetarian variant could include replacing the meat with lentils or chickpeas, providing a nutritious and healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of meat? Of course! This recipe works well with beef or chicken too. Cooking time may be shorter for chicken, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

- How can I make the stew spicier? You can add more hot pepper paste or even chili flakes, depending on your preferences.

- Can I prepare the stew in advance? Absolutely! This stew is even better the next day when the flavors have time to meld. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for a quick meal in the future.

A personal note:

This stew reminds me of long, warm meals spent with family, where laughter and stories intertwine with delicious aromas. Each bite brings with it a piece of tradition and love. I wish for you to enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and to turn this recipe into a part of your culinary story.

Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this pork and potato stew will bring warmth and joy. Enjoy your meal!