Pork stew with cauliflower and dill sauce

Pork Stew with Cauliflower and Dill Sauce

If you are looking for a delicious, easy, and aromatic recipe, pork stew with cauliflower and dill sauce is the perfect choice! This dish combines the savory taste of pork with the delicate texture of cauliflower, offering you a comforting and healthy meal, ideal for any occasion. Moreover, it is a simple recipe that you can prepare quickly, even after a long day at work.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower (approximately 600-700 g)
- 700 g pork (choose lean meat for a lighter option)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 tomato
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon red pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 50 g butter
- 200 ml milk
- 150 ml sour cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika
- Fresh herbs (dill and parsley)

Recipe History
Stew is a traditional dish appreciated in many cultures for its versatility. Initially, stews were cooked over an open flame in clay pots and served as a method to turn less noble cuts of meat into flavorful meals. Over time, each region developed its own version of stew, adapting available ingredients and local flavors. The recipe we propose today brings together influences from various culinary traditions, transforming into a perfect dish for family meals.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the cauliflower
Start by breaking the cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Place them in a pot of boiling water, add a teaspoon of salt, and blanch for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly tender. Once cooked, remove them with a slotted spatula and transfer them to a plate. Cover them to keep warm while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Cooking the meat
In a large skillet or pot, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion. Chop the onion finely and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden and translucent. This is the perfect time to add the pork, cut into suitable cubes. Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of sweet paprika to enhance the flavors. Cook the meat until it is evenly browned, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Adding the vegetables
Once the meat is well-browned, add the red pepper paste, diced tomato, and bell pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for a few minutes for the vegetables to release their flavors. This mixture will add a sweet note and a pleasant texture to the stew.

4. Simmering the stew
Deglaze the mixture with a glass of the water you used to blanch the cauliflower. This step is essential as it will add extra depth of flavor to the stew. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the meat becomes tender and juicy.

5. Preparing the sauce
In a non-stick skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and quickly whisk to avoid lumps. Once the flour is well incorporated, gradually pour in the milk, continuing to stir. Add the vegetable seasoning for extra flavor. Once the sauce comes to a boil, add the sour cream and mix well until you achieve a creamy texture. Finally, sprinkle chopped dill on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assembling
Finally, add the sauce over the stew and gently stir to combine all the flavors. When serving, place portions of the blanched cauliflower on the plate, and top with the pork stew and a small ladle of dill sauce. You can garnish with fresh herbs for a more attractive appearance.

Serving Suggestions
This pork stew with cauliflower is delicious served alongside creamy polenta or plain rice, which will absorb the rich sauce. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly accompany the dish, bringing a pleasant contrast to the meaty flavors.

Tips and Variations
If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the pork with tofu or mushrooms, and the sauce can be made with almond milk for a dairy-free option. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to enrich the dish.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and sour cream used. Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, while pork provides essential proteins. It is definitely a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower is a good choice, just make sure to blanch it a little longer to cook it properly.

2. Can I make the stew with beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pork with beef, but it will require a longer cooking time to become tender.

3. What other herbs can I use instead of dill?
Parsley, basil, or even thyme can provide different and interesting flavors to the sauce.

In conclusion, pork stew with cauliflower and dill sauce is a recipe that combines tradition with innovation, offering you a delicious and comforting meal. Don't forget to try it! Enjoy your meal!