Pork with sour cream and mushrooms

Pork with Cream and Mushrooms in the Crock Pot

If you are looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make recipe, pork with cream and mushrooms in the Crock Pot is the perfect choice. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also allow you to enjoy your free time while the food cooks slowly, releasing fantastic flavors and textures. The dish stands out with tender meat and a rich sauce, perfect to be served alongside a side of rice or wide noodles.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6 hours (HIGH) or 8 hours (LOW)
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 pieces of pork shoulder (approximately 200 g each)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)
- 350 g mushrooms, sliced (champignon mushrooms are ideal)
- 200 ml cream (preferably cooking cream)
- 200 ml meat broth or water
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- Kotanyi pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by having all the ingredients ready. This step will not only make cooking easier but will also help you organize better. Finely chop the onion and slice the mushrooms. If using fresh garlic, chop it finely to release its aroma.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a pan, add a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This will add depth and sweetness to the dish.

3. Browning the meat: Add the pieces of pork shoulder to the pan and brown them on both sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for sealing in the juices and giving the meat a delicious texture. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper along the way.

4. Adding the mushrooms: Once the meat is browned, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Mix well and let them cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and releasing their juices. The smell will be irresistible!

5. Transferring to the Crock Pot: Take the ceramic pot of your Crock Pot and add the mixture of meat, onion, and mushrooms. These ingredients will combine perfectly during the slow cooking process, resulting in a succulent dish.

6. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream with the meat broth or water. Add the chopped garlic and mix well. Pour the sauce over the meat in the Crock Pot, ensuring everything is evenly covered.

7. Setting the Crock Pot: Now it’s time to set your Crock Pot! Choose the HIGH setting for 6 hours or LOW for 8 hours, depending on how much time you have. Slow cooking will turn the meat into a tender delicacy, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

8. Serving: When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pieces of meat from the Crock Pot, as they will be extremely tender. Serve the dish with a side of rice or wide noodles and add a spoonful of cream on top for extra creaminess.

9. Serving suggestions: You can also add a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a pleasant contrast. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine could perfectly complement the meal, adding an elegant touch.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the meat: Pork shoulder is ideal for this dish, but you can also try beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- Mushroom variations: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a distinctive note.
- Spices: Play with the spices! You can add thyme, rosemary, or even a bit of sweet paprika to enhance the flavors.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g

Nutritional benefits: Pork is an excellent source of protein, while mushrooms provide fiber and essential vitamins. The cream, although rich, adds calcium and healthy fats but can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Personal stories: I remember my first attempts at cooking with a Crock Pot. It was a time when I had a busy schedule, but I was eager to provide delicious meals for my friends and family. This recipe was among the first I tried, and every bite was a guaranteed success! Every time I make it, I remember those beautiful moments spent around the table, sharing smiles and stories.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use chicken? Yes, you can replace the pork with chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter (about 4-5 hours on HIGH).
- What other sides can I use? Besides rice or noodles, you can try mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a healthier meal.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

I hope this recipe for pork with cream and mushrooms in the Crock Pot inspires you to experiment in the kitchen. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and, most importantly, the delicious meals you will create!