Pork stew

Delicious Pork and Vegetable Stew Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

When it comes to comfort food, pork and vegetable stew is a dish that makes us feel at home, regardless of the weather outside. This recipe is a perfect mix of juicy meat and fresh vegetables, which release their flavors during cooking, resulting in a comforting and nourishing meal. Moreover, it is a simple recipe, perfect for family dinners or moments when you need something tasty and filling.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g pork (the best choice is the thigh or shoulder, which are juicier)
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced or diced
- 2 bell peppers (you can choose between red or green, depending on your preference), peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, peeled and diced (adds a touch of freshness)
- 1 large onion, sliced thinly
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped, for added flavor

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into cubes of about 3 cm. If you wish, you can marinate it a few hours in advance using olive oil, salt, pepper, and some herbs. This will enhance the flavors.

2. Searing the meat: In a large skillet or pot, heat a little oil (about 2-3 tablespoons) over medium heat. Add the pork and sear it until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat, providing a better texture to the stew.

3. Adding the onion: Once the meat has a nice crust, add the sliced onion and sauté it with the meat for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. The onion will add sweetness and flavor to the dish.

4. Including the vegetables: Now, add the sliced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Mix everything well and let the vegetables sauté with the meat for another 5-7 minutes. You will notice how the flavors start to combine.

5. Potatoes and liquid: Add the cubed potatoes and enough water to cover all the ingredients (about 1-1.5 liters). Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft.

6. Seasoning: Once the potatoes are ready, turn off the heat and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped parsley and mix gently. This step will add color and freshness.

7. Resting the dish: Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew sit for 5 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

8. Serving: Serve the stew hot, straight from the pot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a splash of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables like peas or green beans. You can also substitute the pork with chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
- Spices: Add spices like sweet paprika, garlic, or herbs (oregano, thyme) to give a special touch to your stew.
- Cooling and storage: If you have leftover stew, it can be refrigerated for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth to restore its consistency.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is an excellent source of protein due to the pork and provides plenty of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used. The potatoes bring complex carbohydrates, which provide long-lasting energy. Additionally, the vegetables add fiber, essential for healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe is flexible and can easily adapt to your preferred type of meat.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, the stew keeps very well and can be reheated. The flavor often gets better the next day.
- What is the best side dish? A slice of fresh bread or polenta are excellent choices, but a fresh green salad can also perfectly complement the meal.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your kitchen with this pork and vegetable stew. Whether you enjoy it with family or friends, it is a dish that will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces! Bon appétit!