Rigatoni with stew

Penne Rigate with Stew: A Dish that Delights the Senses

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm, comforting meal full of flavors and textures? Penne rigate with stew is a recipe that perfectly combines the savor of meat with al dente pasta, resulting in a dish that will bring a smile to anyone's face. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, but also to impress friends at a festive meal. Let's explore together each step of this delicious recipe to achieve a perfect result!

A Little Story about Stew

Stew is a traditional dish found in many cultures, each having its specific variant. It was initially created to turn less desirable cuts of meat into a tasty dish through slow cooking, which allows the flavors to develop. It is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted based on available ingredients, and today, we will focus on a delicious combination of pork and veal, enriched with fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

- 500 g pork (choose meat with little fat for a richer taste)
- 200 g veal (veal adds a special tenderness to the dish)
- 1 package penne rigate (rigate pasta holds the sauce perfectly)
- 1 onion (say goodbye to bitter onions by choosing white or yellow onion)
- 1 large tomato (opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes)
- 1 bell pepper (you can use red, yellow, or green bell peppers to add color)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin oil adds a distinct flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for a fresh and aromatic finish)
- Salt and pepper (the base of any seasoning)
- Paprika (you can choose sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preferences)

Preparing the Stew

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the pork and veal into small cubes, about 2-3 cm. This will help the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors. Peel and finely chop the onion, and you can cut the bell pepper into small cubes or strips, depending on your preference. The tomato will be diced.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Here, for an even more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of salt, which will help the onion release its juices.

3. Add the tomatoes: After the vegetables have softened, add the diced tomatoes. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. The meat: At this point, add the pork and veal to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, mixing well to coat the meat with the spices. Let everything cook for 5-10 minutes until the meat changes color.

5. Simmering: Add water to the pot, enough to cover the meat (about 3-4 cm above). Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about an hour. Check occasionally, adding water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Pasta

6. Boiling the penne rigate: In another pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add the penne rigate and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Assembling and Serving

7. Assembling the plate: Once the pasta and stew are ready, drain the penne and place it on plates. On top, add a generous portion of stew, making sure to include the delicious vegetables. Garnish each plate with a little chopped fresh parsley for a pleasant visual effect and fresh aroma.

8. Serving suggestions: This recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad. You can also accompany the meal with a glass of dry red wine, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the stew.

Practical Tips

- Alternative with other types of meat: If you prefer, you can use chicken or turkey. The cooking time will be shorter, so be attentive to the texture of the meat.
- Adding vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to add more nutrients and colors.
- Saving time: You can make the stew a day in advance and reheat it the next day. The flavor will be even more intense due to the infusion time of the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain penne is a healthy option and will add an interesting texture to the dish.
2. How can I store the stew? You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be frozen for a longer time, but it is best to consume it fresh.
3. Is this recipe healthy? Absolutely! It contains quality protein from the meat, fiber from the vegetables, and complex carbohydrates from the pasta. It is a balanced meal, perfect for a nourishing dinner.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork and veal, while the vegetables provide a multitude of vitamins and minerals. Whole grain pasta (if chosen) brings fiber, aiding digestion. Additionally, olive oil is a source of healthy fats, beneficial for the heart.

Conclusion

Penne rigate with stew is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you enjoy it on a quiet evening at home or at a meal with loved ones, each bite will transport you to a world of flavors and textures. Try this recipe today and enjoy the magic of cooking! Enjoy your meal!