Onion stew with pork

Onion stew with pork - A comforting recipe for the soul and stomach

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

The story of this onion stew with pork is rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being a dish that brings warmth and comfort on cool days. This stew is not only a nourishing meal but also a symbol of conviviality, bringing family and friends together to enjoy a delicious and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork (choose a cut with a little fat for a richer flavor)
- 1 kg onion (preferably white or yellow onion, for natural sweetness)
- 1 kg tomatoes (ripe tomatoes, for a fresh note)
- 4 bell peppers (a mix of colors for a more appealing presentation)
- 1 chili pepper (optional, for a bit of spice)
- 3 large potatoes (to add substance)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (to enhance the flavors)
- 2-3 stalks of celery (for a crunchy and flavorful note)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (for a fresh taste)
- 1-2 bay leaves (for a subtle aroma)
- 1 tablespoon sweet pepper paste (for a touch of sweetness)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (about half a teaspoon, to add a note of warmth)

Preparing the onion stew with pork

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the pork into small pieces, about 3-4 cm. These will have time to brown and become tender during cooking. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and add the sliced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden, being careful not to burn it.

2. Browning the meat
Add the pieces of meat to the skillet and fry them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned on all sides. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate and keep it warm.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
In the remaining oil, add the sliced onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced bell peppers and carrots (cut into finger shapes for a more interesting texture). Continue to sauté the vegetables together for another 5 minutes.

4. Cooking the stew
Reintroduce the browned meat to the skillet and add thyme, finely chopped celery, and enough water to lightly cover the meat and vegetables. Cover the skillet and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

5. Adding the potatoes
After an hour, peel and cut the potatoes into large quarters, then add them to the stew. Let them cook for 15 minutes until tender.

6. Finalizing the dish
Meanwhile, blanch the tomatoes for a few minutes, then peel them and cut them into quarters. Once the potatoes are nearly done, add the tomatoes to the stew, along with salt, pepper, bay leaves, pepper paste, and chopped dill. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes break down and create a tasty sauce.

7. Adjusting the flavor
If you feel that the stew has a too sour note from the tomatoes, don't hesitate to add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors.

Serving suggestions
The onion stew with pork is delicious served with warm polenta, which perfectly absorbs the aromatic sauce. You can also add a fresh green salad on the side for a crunchy contrast.

Tips and variations
- Instead of pork, you can use beef or chicken, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or basil, to customize the flavor of your stew.
- If you want a spicier stew, add more chili peppers or spices like paprika or chili.

Nutritional benefits
This stew offers a good balance between the protein from the meat, the fiber from the vegetables, and the carbohydrates from the potatoes, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal. Additionally, onions and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to a stronger immune system.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a good alternative, but make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the stew.

2. What is the best pork for this recipe?
Pork shoulder or pork chop are excellent options, as they have a higher fat content, making them more tender and flavorful.

3. Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Yes, the stew keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day, and the flavors become even more intense.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Start cooking this onion stew with pork and enjoy a meal full of tradition and delicious flavors. Enjoy your meal!