Pork paprika with dumplings

Pork Paprika with Dumplings – A Culinary Journey

When we think of the comfort of a meal at home, pork paprika with dumplings is on the list of most beloved dishes. This traditional recipe combines the rich flavors of pork with the fluffy texture of dumplings, creating a perfect lunch that can brighten any day. Whether it’s a chilly autumn day or a lazy Sunday, this paprika will bring warmth and joy to your plate.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
For the paprika:
- 500 g pork shoulder (choose a well-marbled cut for better tenderness)
- 3 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste or 2 fresh red peppers, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 cups of water + 1 cup of hot water for dumplings
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil (sunflower oil or olive oil are excellent options)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon of hot paprika (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 4 and a half tablespoons of flour
- A pinch of salt

Step by step to a perfect paprika:

1. Preparing the meat and vegetables: Start by washing the pork shoulder well and cutting it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This size will allow the meat to cook evenly. The onion, on the other hand, should be finely chopped so it can sauté quickly and blend well into the sauce.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This is when the base aroma of the paprika begins to develop.

3. Adding the meat: Add the meat cubes to the skillet and cover with a lid. Let them sauté in their own juices for 5-8 minutes. Covering helps keep the moisture in and tenderizes the meat.

4. Boiling: After the meat has browned slightly, add the two cups of water. Let it boil over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’s important to check periodically if there’s still water in the pot to prevent it from sticking.

5. Flavoring: Halfway through the boiling time, add the roasted pepper paste (or fresh red pepper) and season with salt and pepper. The roasted pepper paste adds not only flavor but also a vibrant color to your dish.

6. Dumplings: In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. When the meat is cooked, add a cup of hot water and, when it starts to boil, using a wet teaspoon, take some of the dumpling mixture and form small balls, which you add to the paprika.

7. Boiling the dumplings: Let them boil for 10-15 minutes. Check if they are cooked by inserting a fork into one of the dumplings; it should be fluffy and well-cooked.

8. Finalizing: In the last minutes of cooking, add the chopped garlic and, if desired, a bit of hot paprika for extra intensity. Once you’ve added the chopped parsley, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving: Pork paprika with dumplings is delicious served warm, alongside pickles, which provide a perfect contrast of acidity and crunch. You can add a slice of fresh bread to complete the meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Tips and variations:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add some peppercorns or bay leaves during boiling.
- Instead of roasted pepper paste, you can use fresh or canned tomatoes, but the taste will be slightly different.
- If you have less time, you can use pre-cooked pork, which will significantly reduce the preparation time.

Nutritional benefits: Pork paprika is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, thanks to the pork and vegetables. Additionally, the dumplings provide carbohydrates, offering energy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter.
2. How can I make the dumplings fluffier? Make sure not to overmix the dumpling mixture, or they will become dense.
3. Can I make the paprika a day in advance? Absolutely! The flavor intensifies over time, so it’s perfect to prepare a day ahead.

By trying this pork paprika with dumplings recipe, you will not only bring a delicious dish to your table but also create pleasant memories, sharing meals with loved ones. Cook with your heart and enjoy every moment!