Pork and Potato Stew

Potato stew with pork - A family recipe full of flavor and nostalgia

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

When we think of potato stew with pork, pleasant childhood memories often come to mind. This simple and hearty recipe is like a warm hug, perfect for chilly days. It's a dish that brings us together at the table, where the rich aroma and savory taste make us feel at home. I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious stew, just like mom used to make.

Necessary ingredients:
- 750 g pork shoulder (ideally choose a shoulder with a bit of fat for a richer taste)
- 1 kg potatoes (new potatoes offer a finer texture, but you can use any type you prefer)
- 3 onions (yellow onion is preferred for its sweetness)
- 2 carrots (carrots add a note of sweetness and color)
- 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper (you can use frozen peppers, but fresh ones are more aromatic)
- 2 tablespoons of pepper paste (homemade for an intense flavor)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh thyme is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (preferably freshly ground)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lard (or olive oil, if you prefer)
- Fresh dill, for garnish

Step by step for a perfect stew:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the pork shoulder well under cold running water. Dry the meat with a paper towel and cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This size will help the meat cook evenly.

2. Searing the meat:
In a deep pot, add the lard and heat it well. When it is hot, add the meat cubes. Let them brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is essential to seal in the meat's juices and add a rich flavor to the stew.

3. Adding the vegetables:
When the meat is nicely browned, add the finely chopped onion. Let the onion soften and become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the diced bell pepper and sliced carrot. Sauté all the ingredients together for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

4. Cooking the stew:
Add 2 cups of water to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 45 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure that all the water doesn’t evaporate; if necessary, add hot water.

5. Adding the potatoes and spices:
Once the meat is almost cooked, add the potatoes cut into larger pieces, the pepper paste, bay leaf, paprika, thyme, pepper, and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

6. Finalizing the dish:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Transfer the pot to the oven and let the stew bake for 15-20 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and give the dish a special taste.

7. Serving:
Finally, add the chopped dill on top for a touch of freshness. You can serve this stew alongside a fresh summer salad or with warm homemade bread.

Useful tips:
- For an even richer taste, you can add a tablespoon of soy sauce or a teaspoon of tomato paste during cooking.
- Variations: Experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or celery, to add new flavors. You can also replace the pork with beef or chicken.
- Storing the stew: This dish is perfect for cooking in advance. You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for later use.

Nutritional benefits:
This potato stew with pork is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Pork provides essential proteins, while vegetables bring fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin A from carrots), and antioxidants. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with chicken or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
- Why should I use pepper paste? Pepper paste adds an intense and deep flavor, but you can also use fresh peppers if you prefer.
- How can I make the stew spicier? Add more hot paprika or a few chili flakes.

This potato stew with pork is not just a recipe, but a story about culinary traditions and moments spent with family. I hope you enjoy every bite and create beautiful memories around the table, just as we have. Enjoy your meal!