Pork shoulder with whole potatoes in thyme and garlic sauce

Pork Thigh with Whole Potatoes in Thyme and Garlic Sauce

Welcome to the world of enticing flavors! Today I present to you a delicious recipe that perfectly combines the juiciness of pork with the savory taste of potatoes, all in a sauce full of thyme and garlic aromas. This recipe is ideal for a family meal, as it is easy to prepare and extremely satisfying. Let’s get to work!

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

Ingredients
- 500 g pork thigh (it’s best to choose a piece with a bit of fat for a richer taste)
- 8 potatoes (preferably medium-sized)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 200 ml broth (or tomato juice)
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon of oregano (or 1 sprig of fresh oregano)
- 5-6 peppercorns
- Salt, to taste
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- 2 bay leaves

Brief History of the Recipe
Pork thigh is a versatile ingredient used in various cuisines around the world. When cooked slowly, it becomes extremely tender, and the sauces derived from it are always rich and flavorful. Combined with potatoes, this recipe offers culinary comfort, perfect for chilly days or Sunday meals with loved ones.

Preparing the Recipe

1. Preparing the meat
- Start by cutting the pork thigh into 2 or 4 pieces, depending on your preference. An even cut will ensure consistent cooking.
- Place the meat pieces in a large pot, add water, and let them boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes. This step helps remove impurities and will make the meat more tender.

2. Adding the potatoes
- After 20 minutes, add salt and the whole potatoes to the pot. The potatoes should not be peeled, as the skin will add extra flavor and help maintain their shape. Let everything boil together for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes become slightly tender.

3. Preparing the sauce
- When the potatoes are almost done, add the broth and pepper (the peppercorns add a distinct flavor note). Use a wooden spoon to gently stir, being careful not to form lumps. Then, sprinkle the flour on top and stir again to thicken the sauce.
- Add the finely chopped garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. The latter will add a deep and sophisticated flavor to the sauce.

4. Finalizing the dish
- Let the dish simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the meat becomes extremely tender. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Serving
This dish is delicious served hot, alongside a fresh salad or pickles, to balance the flavors. You can serve it with a slice of fresh bread to soak up the tasty sauce. A glass of dry white wine or a craft beer can perfectly complement this meal.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the meat: Opt for a pork thigh with a bit of fat, as this will add juiciness and flavor.
- Potatoes: Choose uniformly sized potatoes to ensure they cook at the same time. If you prefer, you can use new potatoes, which have a more delicate texture.
- Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian version, you can replace the pork thigh with large mushrooms or tofu, and the sauce will remain just as delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, you can use chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- What can I do if I don’t have broth? You can use tomato juice or even water, but add extra spices to enhance the flavor.
- How can I store leftovers? This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be easily reheated.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe provides a good source of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and various vitamins and minerals from the herbs and garlic. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and for supporting the immune system.

Conclusion
Pork thigh with whole potatoes in thyme and garlic sauce is a recipe that promises rich flavors and a comforting texture. It is a perfect dish to gather the family around the table and share unforgettable moments. I encourage you to try this recipe and add your own personal touch! Cooking is an art form, and every meal is a story we share with our loved ones. Enjoy your meal!