Leek with olives

Leek with olives - a savory and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe history

Leek with olives is a dish that combines the simple and delicious flavors of the basic ingredients. This meal has deep roots in culinary traditions, often prepared in Romanian households, but not only. Its unmistakable aroma and the texture of slowly cooked meat remind one of Sunday meals spent with loved ones. Whether served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, leek with olives manages to bring a touch of nostalgia to every plate.

Necessary ingredients

- 500g pork (choose meat with a little fat for a tender texture)
- 500g leek (make sure the leek is fresh and crispy)
- 200g black olives (preferably pitted for easier consumption)
- 1 onion (a large white or yellow onion will give a sweeter taste)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste (choose a quality paste without preservatives)
- 50ml tomato juice (optional, but adds a note of acidity)
- 1 small lemon (for a tangy taste, but adjustable)
- 1 vegetable stock cube (for an extra flavor boost)
- 50ml dry white wine (optional, but recommended for a complex taste)
- A bunch of dill (fresh, to add flavor)
- A bunch of parsley (fresh, for a vibrant taste)
- 8 tablespoons oil (olive oil is an excellent choice, but sunflower oil works well)

Step by step: Preparing leek with olives

1. Preparing the meat: In a large pot, add the 4 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Cut the pork into suitable-sized pieces, then add to the pot. Cook the meat until it browns evenly and the water evaporates, stirring occasionally. This process will take about 10 minutes.

2. Boiling the meat: Once the meat is browned, add 500ml of water and the vegetable stock cube. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. This step will help develop the flavors and tenderize the meat.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, bring another pot of water to a boil. Add the olives and slice the lemon (without the peel) and let them blanch for 5 minutes. This step will reduce bitterness and intensify flavors. After 5 minutes, drain and set aside.

4. Sautéing the leek and onion: In a separate pan, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and the leek cut into pieces of about 4 cm. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The leek should become tender but not brown too much.

5. Combining the ingredients: After the 30 minutes of boiling the meat, add the onion and leek mixture to the pot. Pour in 500ml of water and the dry white wine and let it boil for 25 minutes. This stage will combine the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the dish.

6. Finalizing the dish: After the time has passed, add the tomato paste, tomato juice, olives, and lemon slices. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well, then transfer everything to a baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes. This process will help intensify the flavors and allow the ingredients to blend.

7. Serving: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the chopped dill and parsley. Mix well and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Leek with olives is delicious served alongside a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad.

Practical tips

- If you are not a fan of tangy flavors, reduce the amount of lemon by half.
- You can use chicken or turkey instead of pork for a lighter version of the recipe.
- Adding spices such as paprika or herbs de Provence can add a touch of originality to the dish.
- This dish can be prepared in larger quantities and keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for reheating the next day.

Nutritional information

This dish is rich in protein due to the pork and contains healthy vegetables like leek and olives. Olives add healthy fats, while fresh herbs provide a dose of vitamins. A serving of leek with olives has approximately 450 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace pork with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I better preserve this dish?
Leek with olives keeps well in the fridge in airtight containers for 2-3 days.

3. What side dishes go best with this dish?
We recommend mashed potatoes or a salad with fresh vegetables for a pleasant contrast.

Variations

- Try adding diced potatoes to the pot to make the dish heartier.
- You can use green olives for a milder taste.

Leek with olives is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings together flavors, aromas, and memories. So, don't hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 500g pork 500g leek 200g black olives 1 onion 3 tablespoons tomato paste 50ml tomato juice 1 small lemon 1 vegetable stock cube 50ml dry white wine 1 bunch of dill 1 bunch of parsley 8 tablespoons oil