Pork stew in a cauldron

Pork Stew in a Cauldron - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

I invite you to join me on a culinary journey through traditions and flavors, where we will prepare a delicious pork stew in a cauldron. This recipe is full of flavor and history, bringing together simple yet characterful ingredients. Pork stew is a dish that has been enjoyed for generations, a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing special moments. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 2 large onions (approximately 300 g)
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 500 g pork (choose a piece with a bit of fat for added juiciness)
- 2 pork sausages (preferably smoked for an intense flavor)
- 300 g smoked pork tenderloin (for an extra flavor boost)
- Spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika, thyme)
- 3-4 garlic cloves (optional, for extra flavor)
- Water (enough to cover the ingredients)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onions. A well-chopped onion will add sweetness to your dish. If you like garlic, crush or finely chop it. Choose pieces of pork that have a bit of fat, as they will brown nicely and remain juicy.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a cauldron or deep pan, add 100 ml of oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onions and sauté until golden. This step is essential, as caramelized onions will provide a delicious base for your stew.

3. Adding the meat: Once the onions are ready, add the pork cut into cubes. Let it brown well on all sides. This process will bring wonderful flavor and help develop the aromas.

4. Including the sausages and tenderloin: Once the meat has a nice crust, add the sliced sausages and smoked pork tenderloin. These ingredients will add not only flavor but also a varied texture.

5. Boiling the ingredients: Cover everything with water (approximately 500 ml) and let it simmer on low heat. It is important to top up with water if necessary to ensure all ingredients are covered. Allowing everything to simmer gently will blend the flavors beautifully.

6. Seasoning: After about 20-30 minutes, add the spices: salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and thyme to taste. If you like garlic, now is the time to add it too. Let everything simmer for about 30 minutes or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.

7. Finishing the dish: When all the water has evaporated and the meat is tender and flavorful, the stew is ready. You can adjust the sauce consistency to your liking; if you prefer more sauce, add a little water and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

Serving

Pork stew is served hot, alongside delicious sides. Enhance its flavor with crispy fried potatoes, steaming polenta, grated sheep cheese, and a fried egg on top. This will create a perfect contrast between textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Meat: Choose pork with a balanced ratio of meat and fat for a juicy and tasty dish.
- Sausages: Smoked sausages add an unmistakable flavor. You can experiment with different types of sausages based on your preferences.
- Garlic: If you love intense flavors, feel free to add more garlic.
- Variations: You can try adding vegetables such as carrots or peppers to enrich the color and texture of the stew.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of pork stew contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the fat content of the meat and the sides. It is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals. Although it is a hearty dish, consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken instead of pork?: Of course! While it won't have the same deep flavor, you can adapt the recipe using chicken.
- How can I store the stew for the next day?: You can store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. The flavor will become even more intense the next day!
- What drinks pair well with it?: A glass of red wine or a craft beer will pair perfectly with this rich dish.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for pork stew in a cauldron, full of flavors and personality! It is a dish that not only nourishes but also brings people together, turning meals into unforgettable moments. Enjoy your meal!