Sour cucumber dish with pork and spring onions

Sour Cucumber Dish with Pork and Green Onion: A Home Delicacy

If you are looking for a savory recipe that brings back memories of hearty family meals, you have come to the right place. The sour cucumber dish with pork and green onion is a perfect choice for those who are not fasting and wish to enjoy a comforting dish with enticing flavors. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g pork (preferably tenderloin or shoulder)
- 200 g green onion (or spring onion if green onion is unavailable)
- 500 g pickled cucumbers
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil (or olive oil)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Freshly ground pepper to taste

Brief History of the Recipe

Sour cucumbers have been used in kitchens around the world for centuries, not only for their distinctive taste but also for their preservative properties. This recipe has evolved over time, becoming a staple in many households. The sour cucumber dish with pork enjoys popularity due to the delicious combination of succulent meat and the tangy flavors of the cucumbers, offering a wonderful contrast and an unforgettable culinary experience.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Sour Cucumber Dish

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by washing the pork under cold running water. Then, pat it dry with a paper towel and cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This size will allow the meat to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the dish.

2. Chopping the Vegetables:
Finely chop the onion and slice the carrot thinly. If using green onion, cut it into pieces of about 2 cm. The garlic can be finely chopped or crushed, depending on your preference.

3. Browning the Meat:
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the pork cubes and brown them until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat and give it a tender texture.

4. Adding the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and carrot to the pot. Sauté the vegetables together with the meat for 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent. At this point, the flavors will start to meld, and your dish will take on a special taste.

5. Boiling with Water:
Pour warm water into the pot, enough to cover the meat and vegetables (about 1-1.5 liters). Let it simmer on low heat, covering the pot with a lid, for 20 minutes. Check occasionally and add water if needed.

6. Adding the Cucumbers and Flavors:
Once the meat is almost cooked, add the green onion, sliced sour cucumbers, crushed garlic, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine the flavors, then let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes. At this point, there is no need to add salt, as the sour cucumbers are already salty.

7. Finalizing the Dish:
After the dish has simmered, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh dill. This will provide a final fresh and aromatic touch. Mix well and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

The sour cucumber dish with pork is delicious served warm, alongside a portion of polenta or fresh bread. A simple green salad or a tomato salad with onion pairs perfectly, bringing a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a fruit compote would be the ideal choice to complete the meal.

Variations and Tips

- Cucumbers: If you don't have sour cucumbers, you can use fresh cucumbers and add a splash of vinegar at the end to bring acidity.
- Meat: You can experiment with other types of meat, such as chicken or beef, preferably with a similar texture.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This sour cucumber dish with pork is not only tasty but also nutritious. Pork is a good source of protein and B vitamins, while sour cucumbers provide beneficial probiotics for digestion. Dill not only enriches the flavor but also contains antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use turkey instead of pork?
Yes, you can use turkey or chicken, but the cooking time may vary, so ensure it is cooked well.

How can I store the dish?
You can store the dish in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It is delicious when reheated.

Is this recipe suitable for diets?
The sour cucumber dish with pork is a nutritious option, but if you are looking to reduce calories, I recommend using lean meat and limiting the oil.

The sour cucumber dish with pork and green onion is a recipe that combines tradition with enticing flavors, bringing a touch of nostalgia in every bite. Enjoy this recipe at home and let yourself be carried away by its deliciousness! Bon appétit!