Pork stew with vegetables and mashed potatoes

Pork stew with vegetables and mashed potatoes is a classic recipe, loved by many for its rich flavors and the perfect combination of meat and vegetables. This stew will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a sense of comfort and warmth in every serving.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into small cubes
- 3 large onions, peeled and finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 red bell pepper, peeled and diced
- 4-5 champignon mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 30 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 30 ml tomato paste
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning and chopping all the ingredients. Cutting the meat into smaller cubes helps with even and quick cooking. Also, make sure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes for uniform cooking.

2. Sautéing the onions
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This is an essential step, as sautéed onions develop a sweet aroma that will enhance the stew.

3. Adding the meat and garlic
Once the onion is ready, add the pork and minced garlic. Stir well to combine the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. These spices not only add flavor but also a vibrant color to the dish.

4. Cooking the meat
Pour 100 ml of water into the pot, stirring gently. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about an hour. Check occasionally and add warm water if necessary to prevent burning. Slow cooking will make the meat tender and juicy.

5. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, clean and prepare the vegetables. The bell pepper, mushrooms, and zucchini will not only add a unique texture but also a boost of nutrients.

6. Finalizing the stew
After the meat has cooked for an hour, add the chopped vegetables and tomato paste. Cover the pot again and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but not too soft.

7. Serving
In the meantime, prepare a creamy mashed potato that will perfectly complement the stew. Serve the stew hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley, alongside the mashed potatoes. This combination is both comforting and delicious.

Helpful tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to diversify the texture and color.
- If you prefer a spicy version, you can add a bit of chili or smoked paprika.
- For an even richer taste, consider adding a splash of red wine when you add the meat.

Nutritional benefits:
This pork stew is not only tasty but also nutritious. Pork is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables add essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Mashed potatoes, although richer in carbohydrates, provide energy and are a comforting choice.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter. Make sure not to overcook the chicken, or it will become dry.
- How can I make the stew saltier? Add salt gradually, tasting along the way to avoid it being too salty.

Complementary recipes:
Pork stew with vegetables pairs perfectly with a fresh summer salad or warm homemade bread. An ideal drink to accompany this dish would be a dry red wine, which will enhance the rich flavors of the stew.

In conclusion, pork stew with vegetables and mashed potatoes is a recipe that combines tradition with excellent taste, perfect for a family meal or to impress friends at a dinner. Feel free to put your personal touch on the recipe by experimenting with ingredients, and enjoy every bite!