Food with pork, mushrooms, breaded onion rings, and polenta

Recipe: Pork Stew with Mushrooms and Breaded Onion Rings, served with Polenta

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love a delicious, warm meal that brings back memories of family gatherings? Pork stew with mushrooms, accompanied by breaded onion rings and polenta, is a dish that adds a touch of comfort to every bite. This recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, harmoniously combines tender pork with juicy mushrooms and intense flavors, making it perfect for a chilly day.

I will guide you step by step on how to prepare this delicacy so you can achieve a perfect result, making the dish the star of your table.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg pork shoulder (choose meat with a little fat for a richer flavor)
- 1 kg mushrooms (champignon or oyster mushrooms, sliced)
- 3 large onions (red onion adds a sweet touch)
- 1 red bell pepper (for added color and texture)
- 3 tomatoes (fresh, rich in flavor)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (or 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic, minced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- Oil (for sautéing)

Breaded Onion Rings:

- 2 large onions (cut into thick rings)
- 1 cup flour (to coat the onions)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- Breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)
- Oil (for frying)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Meat

1. Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large cubes, about 3-4 cm. This will help the meat cook evenly and remain juicy.
2. In a deep pot, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat it over low heat.
3. Add the meat cubes and cover the pot with a lid. Cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’s important not to add water, as the meat will release its natural juices.

Step 2: Adding the Vegetables

4. Once the meat starts to brown, add the finely chopped onion, red bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Mix well, cover again, and let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes. The mushrooms will release enough water to help create the sauce.

Step 3: Preparing the Tomatoes

5. Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. Score them lightly on the opposite side of the stem and blanch them in hot water for 30 seconds. This will make peeling easier. Once peeled, chop them finely.
6. When the meat is nearly cooked, add the chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If the sauce has reduced too much, add a little hot water. Let everything simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 4: Thickening the Sauce

7. Dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water and add it to the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it boil for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Breaded Onion Rings

8. In another bowl, prepare a mixture of flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dipping the onions in these ingredients will give them a delicious crust.
9. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan, and when hot, dip the onion rings in flour, then in eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs. Fry them until golden and crispy, then remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving

10. Serve the pork stew with mushrooms alongside warm polenta, mashed potatoes, or rice. Top with breaded onion rings for a crunchy and delicious contrast.

Serving Suggestions

A little personal note: I like to add a few fresh parsley or basil leaves on top for extra flavor. A bottle of white or red wine would perfectly complement this meal.

Useful Tips

- If you want a spicier version of this dish, add some finely chopped chili pepper along with the onion.
- Substitute the mushrooms with zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian option.
- If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, another natural thickener can be cornmeal.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Pork is an excellent source of protein, while mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins. Tomatoes provide lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
- Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with chicken or beef, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I store the leftovers?
- The stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated without issues.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
- In addition to polenta, the stew pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad.

Now that I’ve shared my favorite recipe for pork stew with mushrooms, I hope you feel inspired to make it! It’s a meal that blends tradition with comfort, perfect for any occasion. Bon appétit!