Pork stew with polenta

Pork Stew with Polenta - A Comforting and Delicious Dinner

If you are tired of ordinary meals and want to bring a touch of flavor to your plate, pork stew with polenta is the perfect choice. This traditional recipe is not only tasty but also rich in history, being prepared in numerous households. Each family has its own version, but the essence remains the same: tender meat, aromatic sauce, and the perfect accompaniment of polenta.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork (shoulder)
- 200 g pork belly (with some fat)
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can also use tomato juice)
- Salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste
- Oil for frying
- Warm polenta (for serving)
- Pickled cucumbers (optional, for a perfect contrast)

Did you know? Polenta, the main ingredient of this dish, has deep roots in traditional cuisine, being a staple food that accompanies many recipes. It is an excellent source of carbohydrates, and the combination with pork provides a hearty and nourishing meal.

Preparing the Pork Stew

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the pork and the pork belly into small cubes, about 2-3 cm. This will allow for even cooking and make the meat more tender. Chop the onion into julienne or small cubes, depending on your preference.

2. Frying the meat: In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of oil and let it heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the meat is lightly browned. Adding the pork belly at this point will enrich the flavor of the dish.

3. Adding the onion: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion. Continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and releases its aroma. This is the ideal moment to add dried thyme, which will give a distinct flavor.

4. Cooking with water: Add a little water to the skillet, just enough to cover the bottom. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes. It’s important to check occasionally and, if necessary, add more water to maintain a consistent sauce.

5. Finishing the dish: 10 minutes before it’s done, add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken. At this point, you can adjust the spices to your liking by adding more thyme or pepper.

6. Preparing the polenta: While the stew is simmering, you can prepare the polenta. Boil water in a large pot and gradually add cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. After about 10-15 minutes, the polenta is ready - it should be creamy and slightly elastic.

Serving and Variations

Serve the pork stew hot, alongside polenta, which you can slice or serve with a spoon. Add a few pickled cucumbers to balance the flavors and provide a crunchy contrast. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or pickles to complete the meal.

Useful Tips:
- If you want to reduce calories, you can use turkey or chicken instead of pork. You can also reduce the amount of oil used for frying.
- For an extra flavor boost, add a few crushed garlic cloves when you add the onion.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add hot peppers or paprika.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use beef instead of pork?
Answer: Of course! Beef will add a different flavor, but it will require a longer cooking time.

2. How can I keep the polenta soft?
Answer: You can cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
Answer: A dry red wine or a pale beer will perfectly complement the flavors of the stew.

Nutrition: A serving of stew with polenta contains approximately 600-800 calories, depending on the amount of oil and type of meat used. This is a hearty meal, rich in protein and carbohydrates, ideal for a cool evening.

In conclusion, pork stew with polenta is not just a simple dish but a culinary experience that blends tradition with taste. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a weekend lunch, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don’t forget to personalize the recipe to your taste and enjoy every bite!