Pork stew with olives

Pork stew with olives: a delight that combines flavors, tradition, and the comfort of a savory meal! This recipe is not just a simple dish, but a true culinary story, full of flavor and warmth. Even if pork is not always on your list of favorites, I assure you that this dish will win you over from the first bite!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork (choose a lean piece for a healthier result)
- 8 medium onions
- 200 g black olives (preferably pitted)
- 1 large carrot
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (you can also use tomato sauce for a sweeter flavor)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Flavor secret (a favorite seasoning, such as herb mixes or spices, for an extra flavor)

About the recipe:
This pork stew with olives recipe has its roots in traditional cuisine, where slow-cooked dishes were a way to transform simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. The stew is an excellent choice for a family lunch or dinner, where comfort and indulgence blend perfectly.

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by washing the pork well. Although some sources claim that washing meat can lead to a loss of vitamins, I believe it is important to remove any impurities. After washing, cut the meat into medium cubes, about 3-4 cm.

Step 2: Boiling the meat
Place the cut meat in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring to a boil and, as the water starts to boil, remove the foam from the surface. This process will ensure a clearer and tastier dish. After boiling for 5 minutes, drain the water and set the meat aside.

Step 3: Sautéing the onions
In the same pot, add a little oil and sauté the onions that you have peeled and chopped finely. Sautéing the onions will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to your dish. Once the onions become translucent, add a glass of water and let it boil for a few minutes.

Step 4: Adding the carrot
Peel the carrot and grate it. Add it to the pot along with the onions and let it boil together, covered, for about 10 minutes. This mixture will form the flavorful base of your stew.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Add the pork to the pot, cover with water and let it simmer on low heat. It is important to maintain a low heat to ensure even cooking and to achieve tender meat. After about 30 minutes, add the tomato paste (or tomato sauce) and mix well.

Step 6: Adding the olives
Once the meat has boiled and become tender, add the black olives. They will provide a salty and slightly bitter taste that will balance the sweetness of the other ingredients. Season with pepper and add your favorite flavor secret.

Step 7: Final cooking
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 40 minutes on low heat. The flavors will combine, and the meat will become so tender that it will melt in your mouth.

Serving:
This delicious stew is perfect both warm and cold. It can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. If you want a touch of freshness, add a simple green salad on the side. The taste will be truly divine!

Useful tips:
- Vary the flavors: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for a more colorful and nutritious stew.
- Choose the olives: Green olives can be used as alternatives, but black ones are more suitable for this recipe due to their more intense flavor.
- Storage: The dish can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the taste will intensify over time.

Nutritional information:
A serving of this stew contains approximately 350 calories, providing a good source of protein and healthy fats from the meat and olives. The dish is rich in B vitamins, due to the content of meat and vegetables, and represents a nutritious choice for family meals.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use beef instead of pork? Yes, you can replace pork with beef, but the cooking time may vary.
- What is the best way to store the dish? Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can freeze leftovers for a quick meal in the future.
- Is this a recipe suitable for special occasions? Absolutely! It is a comforting dish, perfect for family or friends' gatherings.

Prepare this pork stew with olives and let yourself be carried away by its rich flavors and the comfort it brings. I assure you that after trying it, it will quickly become a staple recipe in your menu! Enjoy!