Pork stew with polenta

Pork stew with polenta – A rustic and savory feast

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't remember the days spent in grandma's kitchen, where the aroma of lovingly cooked meat and warm polenta made your mouth water? Pork stew with polenta is a dish that evokes pleasant memories, making it a perfect choice for a family lunch or a dinner with friends. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, even for those with little kitchen experience.

The history of stew is deeply connected to the culinary traditions of communities that used pork and local ingredients to create hearty meals. This rich dish has historically been a symbol of hospitality and joy, bringing people together around the table. So, let’s put on our aprons and get cooking!

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork shoulder
- 350 g smoked sausages
- 3-4 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste with tomatoes (you can also use roasted bell peppers)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Oil for frying

Preparing the stew

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the pork well under cold running water. Then, cut the pork shoulder into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This step is essential because the meat cubes will cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors.

2. Frying the meat: In a deep skillet or pot, add a few tablespoons of oil and let it heat up. Add the meat cubes and fry them for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat changes color and starts to brown. This is the stage where the meat develops a delicious crust while retaining its juiciness.

3. Adding the sausages: Cut the smoked sausages into slices and add them to the skillet. Continue cooking for 5-10 minutes until the sausages release their aroma and brown slightly. They will add an intense flavor and pleasant texture to the dish.

4. Seasoning: It’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme over the meat and sausage mixture. Then add the roasted pepper paste with tomatoes, which will give a fresh note and vibrant color to the dish. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Adding the garlic: Slice the garlic thinly and add it to the skillet. The garlic will not only enrich the aroma but also add nutritional benefits, being known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Let everything simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, ensuring all flavors blend perfectly.

6. Checking the meat: Before removing the dish from the heat, check if the meat is well cooked. You can do this using a fork – if it falls apart easily, then it’s ready.

7. Serving: Remove the skillet from the heat and prepare the polenta. When serving, place a generous portion of the stew on a plate alongside warm polenta and, why not, a little grated cheese on top. This combination is simply irresistible!

Practical tips:
- For perfect polenta: Use salted boiling water. Gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. After the polenta is ready, you can let it rest for a few minutes in a covered pot to achieve a fluffier texture.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture to enrich the dish. You can also use different types of meat, such as pork leg or even beef, to create a unique version of the stew.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the smoked sausages with something else? Yes, you can use fresh sausages or even chicken for a lighter version.
- What are the nutritional benefits of this dish? Pork stew is rich in protein and contains healthy fats, but it’s best consumed in moderation, considering its caloric content.

Pair this dish with a dry red wine, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors and turn the meal into a true celebration. Try serving this dish alongside a fresh salad to add a crunchy and refreshing contrast.

In conclusion, pork stew with polenta is a dish that brings together tradition and exceptional flavor, offering not only a hearty meal but also a memorable culinary experience. So, don’t hesitate to try it and surprise your family or friends with this rustic feast!