Rustic pork stew with mushrooms and homemade pita.

Peasant pork stew with mushrooms and homemade pita

Spring is a magical season when markets are filled with fresh greens and colorful vegetables. Today, I invite you to prepare a delicious peasant pork stew, enriched with mushrooms and aromatic greens, that will bring all the flavors of nature to your table. This simple and accessible recipe is perfect for a family meal or with friends, and the combination of ingredients will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the stew:
- 1.5 kg pork shoulder, cut into cubes
- 500 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 bunches of green onions, finely chopped
- 2 bunches of green garlic, finely chopped
- 500 g canned tomatoes (or fresh, if you prefer)
- Sea salt, pepper, and sweet/spicy paprika, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil for frying
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the homemade pita:
- 500 ml warm water
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Flour, as needed (approximately 400-500 g)

Recipe history

Pork stew is a traditional dish found in many cultures, each with its own variation, adapted to local ingredients and culinary customs. This recipe has been passed down through generations, appreciated for its rich taste and its ability to bring the family together around the table. Mushrooms and fresh greens pay homage to spring, bringing not only vitamins but also an unmistakable aroma.

Step by step: Preparing the stew

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Wash the mushrooms under cold running water and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Finely chop the green onions and garlic, releasing the flavors of these fresh ingredients.

2. Brown the meat: In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the pork cubes and fry them, turning occasionally, until they are golden and browned. Adding a pinch of salt at this point will help flavor the meat.

3. Add the onions and garlic: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

4. Incorporate the potatoes: Add the potato cubes to the pot and stir well to combine the ingredients. Then pour in boiling water, enough to cover the meat and potatoes. Let it come to a boil, so the meat starts to soften.

5. Add the mushrooms and tomatoes: After the meat has simmered for 10-15 minutes, add the mushrooms and tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet or spicy paprika, according to your taste. Let the stew simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the meat and potatoes are cooked and the flavors have melded perfectly.

6. Finishing and serving: Finally, add the chopped parsley and stir gently. Serve the stew hot, alongside the homemade pita and a green salad with fresh cucumbers. This combination will turn the meal into a hearty feast!

Preparing the homemade pita

1. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the warm water, olive oil, baking soda, and salt. Mix well until the salt and baking soda dissolve.

2. Add the flour: Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until you obtain a soft but non-sticky dough. It is important not to add too much flour, as the pita may become tough.

3. Knead the dough: Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes on a floured surface until it becomes elastic and smooth. Divide the dough into two equal parts.

4. Roll out and bake: Use a rolling pin to roll each piece of dough into the desired shape, preferably round. Heat a non-stick pan over low heat and bake the pita on both sides until golden and fluffy. This process will take about 2-3 minutes on each side.

5. Serving: Serve the pita warm, alongside the stew. It is ideal for dipping into the rich sauce of the stew and will add a delightful flavor to your meal.

Practical tips and variations

- Types of meat: You can also use other types of meat, such as lamb or beef, depending on your preferences. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.
- Vegetable variations: Replace the mushrooms with zucchini or carrots to add a variety of textures and flavors.
- Spices: In addition to paprika, you can experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano that pair well with pork.
- Nutritional aspect: This stew is rich in protein due to the pork and full of vitamins from the vegetables. Each serving has approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can the stew be prepared in advance?
Yes, the stew can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavor intensifies as the ingredients meld together.

2. Can I use canned mushrooms?
While it is recommended to use fresh mushrooms for a crunchy texture, canned mushrooms can be used in an emergency.

3. What drinks pair well with this stew?
A cold beer or a dry red wine will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the stew.

Personal tip

I love to experiment with different types of greens in the stew. Sometimes I add fresh basil or dill for a fresh and aromatic touch. Don't forget to let your imagination run wild in the kitchen!

No matter how you choose to prepare this stew, the result will be a delicious meal full of flavors and good vibes. Enjoy!