Green bean stew with pork

Delicious green bean dish with pork

When we think of a comforting meal, green beans with pork come to mind as a perfect choice. This traditional recipe combines the rich flavors of pork with the crunchy texture of green beans, creating a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a sense of nostalgia. It is a simple and quick recipe, ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g fresh green beans
- 400-500 g pork (ideally from the shoulder or leg)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 teaspoon of flour
- 30 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 teaspoon vegetable seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill

Nutritional information:
This dish is rich in protein from the meat, and vitamins and minerals from the green beans. Green beans contain fiber, which aids digestion, and antioxidants that support health. A 200 g serving of green beans with pork has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and meat used.

Preparing the green beans:
1. Start by breaking the ends off the green beans. This step may seem trivial, but it is essential for maintaining the crunchy texture. Wash the green beans under cold running water and boil them in a pot of boiling water with a pinch of salt. Boil the beans for about 10-15 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crunchy. After boiling, remove the beans and let them cool on a plate.

Preparing the meat:
2. Meanwhile, cut the pork into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and remain juicy. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meat cubes and fry them until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside.

Cooking the vegetables:
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion for 5-7 minutes until it becomes golden and translucent. This will add extra flavor to the dish. At this point, you can also add a pinch of salt to help the onion release its juices.

Preparing the sauce:
4. Once the onion is ready, add the tomato juice, stirring well. Then sprinkle in the teaspoon of flour, stirring quickly to avoid lumps. This step will thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture. Add the juice released from the green beans and stir again.

Finalizing the dish:
5. Now it's time to add the boiled, chopped green beans and the fried meat to the skillet. Mix everything well and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. After this time, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley and dill. These fresh herbs will add a touch of freshness and a vibrant taste.

Serving suggestions:
The green beans with pork dish is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold beer can perfectly complement this meal.

Tips and variations:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some diced bell peppers or carrots, cooking them together with the onion.
- For a lighter version, you can use chicken or turkey instead of pork, keeping the same cooking method.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add a bit of hot pepper or chili, depending on your preferences.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to boil them a little longer since they are partially cooked.

2. How can I make the dish healthier?
For a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of oil and use lean meat. You can also replace the tomato juice with fresh crushed tomatoes.

3. What side dishes go well with this meal?
Besides fresh bread or polenta, you can serve a green salad or a tomato salad with onions to add freshness to the meal.

This green beans with pork recipe is not only simple and delicious, but also an excellent way to bring family and friends together at the table. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and comfort of a meal cooked with love. Enjoy your meal!