Stew in a Roman pot

Delicious Stew in a Roman Pot

In a world full of quick and complicated recipes, the stew in a Roman pot stands out as a traditional dish, rich in flavor and simplicity. This recipe is not just a meal, but a story that we bring to our table, with each ingredient having its well-defined role. I invite you to explore this delight with me, which will transform any meal into a true culinary celebration!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Essential ingredients:
- 500 g pork (preferably shoulder for a juicy taste)
- 200 g pork liver
- 300 g pork belly
- 200 g sausages (choose a smoked sausage to add a rich flavor)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a vibrant look)
- 1 cup of wine (a dry white wine will add a delicate flavor)
- 1 cup of water
- Olive oil (or vegetable oil, as preferred)
- Spices of your choice: salt, pepper, sweet paprika, thyme, oregano

Preparing the ingredients:
1. Start by thoroughly washing the pork and cutting it into smaller pieces, about bite-sized. This step is crucial as smaller pieces will cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.
2. Slice the sausages into rounds and the belly into cubes. The liver, being more delicate, can be left whole or cut in half, depending on preference.
3. Peel and chop the vegetables: slice the carrots thinly, julienne the onion, and cube the bell pepper. These will not only add flavor but also a pleasant color to the dish.

Assembling the stew:
1. In a Roman pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the bottom. Place a layer of vegetables (carrot, onion, bell pepper) at the bottom of the pot.
2. The next step is to add the cut meat – a layer of pork, followed by sausages, belly, and liver. This layering technique will allow the ingredients to cook slowly, releasing their flavors and juices.
3. Continue alternating vegetables and meat, ensuring the last layer is vegetables. This will create a kind of "blanket" that helps retain moisture inside.
4. Sprinkle the desired spices over the layer of vegetables and meat. Use salt, pepper, sweet paprika for a smoky note, and thyme or oregano for a Mediterranean aroma.

Filling with liquids:
1. Carefully pour the cup of wine and the cup of water over the entire mixture. These liquids will aid in the slow cooking of the stew and contribute to creating a savory sauce that you will love.

Cooking in the oven:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. It is important to heat the oven after placing the pot with the stew so that the dish begins to cook slowly.
2. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Let it bake for about an hour. Check occasionally to see if it has enough liquid; if necessary, add a little water.

Serving the stew:
After an hour of cooking, the aroma will fill your kitchen, and the meat will be tender and full of flavor. Carefully remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

To serve this delight, we chose to pair it with whole new potatoes, roasted and drizzled with fresh rosemary – a perfect combination! Additionally, pickles will add a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is rich in protein due to the pork and liver, which are excellent sources of iron and B vitamins. Additionally, the vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with beef or poultry, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add hot peppers or spicy seasonings like hot paprika or cayenne pepper.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides roasted potatoes, rice or mashed potatoes are excellent options.

With the possible variations, this stew in a Roman pot can easily adapt to the tastes of each family. Try adding olives, mushrooms, or even fresh herbs to customize your recipe. Every meal thus becomes an opportunity to create delicious memories!

I hope this recipe inspires you to bring a touch of tradition and warmth into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent with loved ones!