Pork goulash with vegetable spread and plum brandy

Pork Goulash with Zacusca and Tuica – A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

When it comes to dishes that blend tradition with intense flavors, pork goulash with zacusca and tuica is certainly a recipe that should not be missing from anyone's culinary repertoire. This recipe perfectly combines succulent meat with the rich flavors of vegetables, and the addition of zacusca gives it a unique and deep character. Moreover, a splash of tuica is the secret that will elevate this dish to another level.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g pork (ideally a piece from the shoulder for more tender meat)
- 400 g potatoes (choose medium-sized potatoes that boil well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil, according to preference)
- 2 medium onions (white onion is preferable for its sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (choose a high-quality paprika for a more intense flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor boost)
- 2 cloves of garlic (fresh and well cleaned)
- 1/2 cup tuica (artisanal tuica will add an authentic taste)
- 1 jar of zacusca (preferably homemade, but a store-bought version can work)
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for decoration)

Useful tips about ingredients:
- The pork should be well-chosen, with little fat to avoid an oily texture in the dish.
- Use homemade zacusca if possible, as it will add a personal touch and an unmistakable flavor. Zacusca is a traditional dish made from slowly cooked vegetables, combining peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes.
- If you want to experiment, you can also add other ingredients such as bell peppers or carrots to diversify the flavor of the goulash.

Preparation instructions:

1. Start by cleaning the onion, chopping it finely. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and starts to caramelize. This will add a natural sweetness to the dish.

2. Add the diced pork. Mix well to coat the meat with the flavored oil from the onion. Let the meat cook in its own juices, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes. It is important to let the meat brown slightly, so it develops a delicious crust.

3. Once the meat has started to brown, it’s time to add the sliced garlic. Mix well and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic, as it becomes bitter.

4. Now it’s time to add the spices: sweet and hot paprika. Stir carefully to blend the flavors, then add the zacusca. This will provide a deep and complex flavor, turning the goulash into a special dish. Add enough water to cover the meat, and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally.

5. Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. When the meat is almost cooked (after about 30 minutes), add the potatoes to the pot. This will transform the goulash into a heartier dish, perfect for a family meal.

6. Another surprise ingredient – now add the tuica! This will enhance the flavor and intensify the taste of the goulash. Add more water if necessary, so that all ingredients are well covered. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are cooked and the meat is tender.

7. When all the ingredients are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a splash of color and freshness. The goulash is now ready to be served!

Serving suggestions:
This pork goulash with zacusca and tuica pairs perfectly with freshly baked homemade bread, which can be used to soak up the delicious sauce. Additionally, a green salad will add a fresh and crunchy note to the dish.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use beef instead of pork?
Of course! Beef can be an excellent choice, but the cooking time will be longer, so make sure to check for tenderness.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini to diversify the dish.

3. Can the goulash be frozen?
Yes, the goulash freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it in airtight containers.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork, while the potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates necessary for energy. The zacusca brings a good amount of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice. Additionally, garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Vegetarian version:
For a vegetarian version, replace the pork with mushrooms or tofu and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You will achieve a dish that is just as delicious and satisfying.

In conclusion, pork goulash with zacusca and tuica is more than just a recipe – it is a culinary experience that brings people together. Try this recipe at home, experiment with the ingredients, and feel free to add your own personal touch. Enjoy your meal!