Rice with pork

Pork Rice – A Recipe of Flavor and Comfort

Pork rice is a classic recipe that evokes family memories and festive meals. This combination of aromatic rice and succulent meat can transform a simple meal into a memorable culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will provide delicious results, and during the cooking process, you will feel the enticing aromas filling your kitchen.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g pork shoulder (preferably with a bit of fat for juiciness)
- 2 medium onions
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups water (approximately 500 ml)
- 2 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 1 cup rice (approximately 200 g)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root (optional)
- 5 cloves of garlic

Brief History

Pork rice is a traditional recipe, appreciated in many cultures around the world. This combination has been adapted over time, with each region adding its own flavors and local ingredients. Rice, as a base, is an excellent source of carbohydrates, and pork adds a rich taste and pleasant texture. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it perfect for family meals.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

1. Start by washing the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch, preventing the rice grains from sticking together.

2. Place the rice to boil in a pot of salted water (approximately 1 cup of water for 1 cup of rice) and let it cook according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Meat

3. In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork cut into cubes of about 3 cm. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté the meat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.

Step 3: Adding the Flavors

4. Finely chop the onion and add it to the pot, along with the 3 crushed cloves of garlic. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Add 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste, basil, and thyme. Mix well and let everything combine for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Boiling the Mixture

6. Add enough water (approximately 500 ml) to cover the meat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the meat is tender.

Step 5: Preparing the Vegetables

7. While the meat is simmering, peel the carrot and parsley root, then grate them. In another pot, add a little oil and sauté the vegetables (carrot and parsley) along with 2 crushed cloves of garlic for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly golden.

Step 6: Combining the Ingredients

8. Add the cooked rice to the pot with the vegetables and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let the flavors combine for 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serving

9. Serve the pork rice on deep plates. You can garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, for a more appealing look.

Serving Suggestions

This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or assorted pickles, which add a crunchy and tangy contrast. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

Variations and Tips

- You can replace the pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini to enrich the dish with more vegetables.
- If you enjoy spicy flavors, you can add some freshly chopped chili or chili flakes.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is a good source of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the vegetables. Pork is also a source of B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. A serving of pork rice contains approximately 600 calories, but values may vary depending on the exact amount of oil and ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to boil it before adding it to the pot.

2. How can I make the recipe easier?
You can use ground pork for quicker cooking. Also, you can skip sautéing the vegetables and add them directly to the pot.

3. Is the recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, the recipe can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

Personal Note

This pork rice recipe reminds me of Sunday meals spent with family. I have always associated the aroma of roasted meat with warmth and comfort. I encourage you to personalize your recipe by adding ingredients you enjoy, so you can create your own savory memories.

Take your time to enjoy the cooking process and remember that every meal is an opportunity to bring people closer together! Bon appétit!