Pork stew with pasta

Pork Stew with Pasta – A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 4

In the culinary world, stew is a dish that evokes family meals, moments spent with loved ones, and culinary traditions passed down through generations. Today, I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for pork stew with pasta, which will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring a warm and welcoming atmosphere to your home.

Ingredients

- 600 g pork (choose the juiciest part, such as the thigh or shoulder)
- 2 large onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (red or green, according to preference)
- 250 g pasta (fusilli or penne are ideal)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (for added flavor)
- 1 bay leaf (to enhance the flavor of the stew)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil)

Necessary Utensils

- A large pot
- A wooden spoon
- A cutting knife
- A grater
- A pot for pasta

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into small cubes (about 2-3 cm). Make sure to use a sharp knife to get uniform pieces that will cook evenly.

2. Heating the oil: In the large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough but not smoking, to avoid burning the meat.

3. Browning the meat: Add the meat cubes to the hot oil. Stir constantly until the meat changes color and becomes lightly browned. This step is essential for sealing in the juices, resulting in a juicy stew.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion in large pieces. This will add sweetness to the stew and enrich the flavor. Let the onion sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

5. Including the carrot and bell pepper: Add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also vibrant color to the stew. Mix well to combine the flavors.

6. Simmering: Reduce the heat to low and add salt, pepper, and a glass of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for 30-35 minutes, until the meat becomes tender. Check occasionally if more water needs to be added.

7. Adding the tomato paste: When the meat is nearly done, add the tomato paste, sugar (if using), and bay leaf. These ingredients will add a rich taste and irresistible aroma to the stew. Mix well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

8. Thickening the sauce: To thicken the sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little cold water, then add the mixture to the stew. Stir well to avoid lumps and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

9. Cooking the pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of butter. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once ready, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the pasta swell for 5-7 minutes.

10. Serving: Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. On plates, add the pasta and pour the pork stew on top. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Pork stew with pasta pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a coleslaw, which will add a crunchy note. Additionally, a slice of fresh bread will be ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

- For a spicy version, add some chopped hot peppers.
- If you prefer a healthier choice, substitute pasta with quinoa or brown rice.
- For a richer taste, you can add a splash of red wine during cooking.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. The added vegetables not only enrich the dish with vitamins and minerals but also provide fiber, aiding digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of pork for this recipe?
For stew, the pork thigh or shoulder are the most suitable, as they are juicy and become tender during cooking.

Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy choice and pairs excellently with this stew.

How can I enhance the flavor of the stew?
Adding aromatic herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can intensify the flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

Now that you have discovered how to prepare a delicious pork stew with pasta, all that’s left is to invite your friends and family to the table. This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a favorite for everyone. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and add your personal touches to make each meal unique and special. Enjoy your meal!