Pork feast with polenta

Pork Feast with Polenta: A Traditional Delicacy

I invite you to discover a delicious recipe, full of traditions and intense flavors: Pork Feast with polenta. This dish is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary story that connects us to our roots, evoking festive moments around the table when family gathers to enjoy dishes cooked with love.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 500 g pork ribs - choose ribs with a thin layer of fat, which will add juiciness to the dish.
- 500 g pork meat with some fat - ideal for a rich taste and pleasant texture.
- 2 tablespoons of lard - if you prefer, you can use olive oil for a healthier option, but lard offers an authentic flavor.
- 1 glass (about 200 ml) of white wine - choose a dry wine that will enhance the flavors of the dish.
- 2 bay leaves - for an extra flavor and a subtle note of spice.
- Salt and pepper - to taste.

Preparing the Pork Feast

1. Preparing the meat:
Cut the meat and the ribs into suitable pieces. Make sure the sizes are uniform for even cooking. I recommend choosing fresh, quality meat for a savory final result.

2. Starting the cooking:
In a large pot, heat the two tablespoons of lard over medium heat. When the lard is well heated, add the pieces of meat and let them brown for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial; browning the meat develops deep flavors and a delicious texture.

3. Adding water:
After the meat has browned, add a cup of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes. It is important not to lift the lid too often, as the steam helps cook the meat evenly.

4. Enhancing the flavors:
After it has boiled, add the white wine and bay leaves. These will add depth to the taste, and the wine will help tenderize the meat. Let it boil for another 10-15 minutes until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly.

5. Finalizing the dish:
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste the dish and adjust the spices as needed.

6. Serving:
The Pork Feast is perfect served with warm polenta, crunchy pickles, and a garlic sauce. Combining these ingredients will give you an unforgettable culinary experience.

Practical Tips
- Polenta: To achieve perfect polenta, use hot water and a ratio of 1:4 (one part cornmeal, four parts water). Add salt to taste and stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Wine: If you don't have white wine, you can use red wine, but the taste will be different, bringing a more intense note.
- Flavors: You can also add other spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs, to diversify the taste of the dish.

Recipe Variations
- With vegetables: You can add carrots or onion to the pot to enrich the dish. These vegetables will add sweetness and extra nutrients.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy food, you can add a few slices of hot pepper during cooking.

Delicious Combinations
The Pork Feast pairs perfectly with a cabbage salad or assorted pickles. Also, a glass of white wine or a cold beer will perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork, having about 600-700 calories per serving, depending on the amount of lard used. Although it is a hearty dish, consumed in moderation alongside polenta and pickles, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can it be made with chicken? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken, but the cooking time will be different.
- What type of wine is recommended? Any dry white wine is ideal, but you can experiment with different types to find the combination you like best.
- Is this recipe suitable for festive days? Absolutely! The Pork Feast is a traditional dish that adds flavor to any special occasion.

Personal Note
I remember the moments spent with my grandmother, who told me stories about how the Pork Feast was prepared on festive days. The aroma of fried meat intertwined with the smell of fresh polenta, creating a warm and familial atmosphere. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!