Pork stew in broth sauce with polenta

Pork shoulder in sauce with broth and polenta – A classic recipe, full of flavor and warmth, perfect for cool days or family gatherings. This recipe will not only fill your home with enticing aromas but will also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Let's embark on the adventure of preparing this delight!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 500-600 g fresh pork shoulder (choose meat with a bit of fat for a more flavorful sauce)
- 1 large onion (preferably white, for sweetness)
- 80-100 ml oil (sunflower or olive, depending on preference)
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika (for a rich flavor)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Vegeta (or a mix of natural spices)
- 2 tablespoons flour (helps thicken the sauce)
- 1 cup broth (about 250 ml, you can also use tomato sauce)
- 1 bay leaf (for an extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish and flavor)

Necessary Utensils
- A deep pot
- A wooden spoon
- A mixing bowl
- A cutting board and a knife

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning and washing the onion, then chop it finely. Make sure the pork shoulder is cleaned of any membranes or excess fat and cut it into uniformly sized cubes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the Onion
In a pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This will add a delicious aromatic base to the sauce.

3. Adding the Meat
Now it's time to add the pork shoulder. Stir constantly so that the meat browns evenly and changes color. This step will help seal in the juices of the meat, making it more tender.

4. Seasoning
Once the meat is well browned, add the paprika, Vegeta, pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well to ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed. Now, add a small amount of water (about 50 ml) and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer on low heat, adding water if necessary.

5. Thickening the Sauce
After the meat has simmered for about 40 minutes and is tender, prepare the broth mixture. In a bowl, combine the flour with the broth, mixing well to avoid lumps. Add this mixture over the meat and stir constantly, letting it simmer until the sauce thickens. This will take about 5-10 minutes.

6. Finishing and Serving
Once the sauce has thickened to the desired consistency, turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This step will add a note of freshness and color to your dish.

Serving
This delicious pork shoulder in sauce with broth pairs perfectly with warm polenta, which absorbs the savory sauce. You can opt for softer or firmer polenta, depending on your preference. You can also add a few slices of cheese on top for an even more refined taste.

Tips and Variations
- For a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of chili powder or a bit of Tabasco sauce.
- Vary the meats: Instead of pork shoulder, you can use beef or chicken, making sure to adjust the cooking time.
- For a smoky flavor, add a few pieces of bacon or smoked sausages at the beginning of the preparation.

Nutritional Benefits
Pork shoulder is an excellent source of protein and contains B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. Adding polenta provides complex carbohydrates, ensuring long-lasting energy. The onion, rich in antioxidants, helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen pork?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to achieve an even texture.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Use more flour or you can add a bit of cornstarch dissolved in cold water.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the dish a day ahead and reheat it before serving. The flavor becomes even richer.

Recommended Pairings
To complement this delicious meal, I recommend serving a dry red wine that balances the flavor of the meat. A simple green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing can add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast.

Now that you have all the necessary details, it's time to start cooking! This recipe for pork shoulder in sauce with broth and polenta is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring your family and friends to the table, sharing unforgettable moments. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500-600 g fresh pork meat, 1 large onion, 80-100 ml oil, 2 teaspoons paprika, pepper, vegta, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 cup broth (about 250 ml), fresh parsley, 1 bay leaf.