Smoked pork neck potato stew

Potato stew with smoked pork neck

If you are looking for a recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked meat with the sweetness of potatoes and the aromas of fresh vegetables, you have come to the right place! Potato stew with smoked pork neck is a comforting dish, perfect for cooler evenings when you want to enjoy a warm and flavorful meal. This recipe is simple yet full of complexity in flavor, and it will surely become a favorite in your family.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g smoked pork neck
- 1 white bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 onions
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 5-6 medium potatoes
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of vegeta (or a preferred spice mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of dried marjoram
- A handful of dried thyme
- Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
- 1 glass of white wine

A brief history of the recipe
Stew is a traditional dish in many cultures, serving not only to feed but also to gather family around the table. This specific recipe with smoked pork neck adds extra flavor through the smoking process, which intensifies the taste of the meat and gives it a distinct aroma, perfect for such a dish. In many households, stew is a symbol of comfort, being a common choice in the cold season.

Step by step: How to prepare potato stew with smoked pork neck

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing and cleaning all the ingredients. Cut the onion into halves or quarters, depending on your preference, and slice the bell peppers. Chop the garlic coarsely to retain its aroma in the dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they become slightly translucent.

3. Adding the meat and wine
Cut the smoked pork neck into strips or cubes, according to your preference. Add the meat to the skillet and continue to sauté everything for about 10-15 minutes, until the meat starts to brown. If you notice that the mixture is sticking to the skillet, add a glass of white wine, which will help deglaze the skillet and add a note of acidity and complexity to the flavor.

4. Boiling the stew
After some of the wine has evaporated, add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Mix well, then sprinkle a tablespoon of flour and a teaspoon of sweet paprika over the potatoes. These will help thicken the sauce and enrich the flavors. Add the 2 cups of water and mix again.

5. Slow cooking
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Check periodically to ensure it doesn't stick. If necessary, add a tablespoon of water at a time. In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add a tablespoon of vegeta, salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle the marjoram and thyme.

6. Finalizing and serving
When the potatoes are cooked and have absorbed all the flavors, the stew is ready. Sprinkle fresh parsley leaves on top and serve it hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the meat: Smoked pork neck can be replaced with beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary. Make sure the meat is well-cooked and tender.
- Variations: You can add carrots or celery to diversify the vegetables. Also, if you like a spicy flavor, add a bit of dried or fresh chili pepper.
- The wine: Choose a dry white wine, which will add acidity and help balance the flavor of the stew.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use new potatoes? Yes, new potatoes can be used, but the cooking time may be shorter.
- How can I make the stew lighter? You can reduce the amount of oil or use lean meat to make the recipe more diet-friendly.
- Can the stew be frozen? Yes, the stew can be frozen, but it is recommended to reheat it on low heat to avoid ruining the texture of the potatoes.

Nutritional benefits
This potato stew with smoked pork neck is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, while the vegetables provide fiber and essential nutrients. Smoked pork neck, despite its fat content, offers a quality protein intake.

Servings and pairings
To complete the meal, you can serve the stew with a fresh green salad, with lemon dressing to add a refreshing note. A drink like white wine or a blonde beer can perfectly accompany the flavors of this dish.

Personal note:
This potato stew with smoked pork neck reminds me of hearty meals from my childhood when the whole family gathered around the table. The aroma of smoked meat combined with the sweetness of the vegetables is a memory that warms my heart even now. Try to create these special moments in your family by enjoying a warm and delicious serving of stew!

So, get ready to delight your taste buds with this potato stew with smoked pork neck, a simple yet characterful recipe. Enjoy your meal!