Olives with pork and sauce

Delicious pork with olives recipe - a savory combination that blends the intense flavors and tender texture of the meat with the slightly salty taste of olives. This simple and quick recipe promises to become a family favorite, perfect for special lunches or dinners.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g large black olives (Mamut type)
- 600 g pork shoulder (or other preferred meat)
- 2 small onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- Thyme, to taste

Brief history:
Pork with olives is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in many cultures. This combination blends different culinary techniques, from frying to boiling, reflecting the ability to transform simple ingredients into delicious dishes. Olives, often considered a symbol of the Mediterranean, add not only a distinctive flavor but also a range of essential nutrients.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by cutting the pork shoulder into pieces about 3-4 cm. These sizes are ideal for even cooking and absorbing flavors. I recommend choosing meat with a bit of fat, which will make the dish juicier.

2. Heating the oil:
Place a pot over medium heat and add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a healthy touch to your dish. Wait a few minutes until the oil is well heated.

3. Sautéing the meat:
Add the pieces of meat to the pot. Let them fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning them on all sides to get a golden crust. This will add extra flavor to the dish.

4. Adding the onion:
Once the meat is nicely browned, add the chopped onion. Sautéing the onion together with the meat will intensify the flavors. Continue cooking for 5-6 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Including the olives:
Now it's time to add the olives. Be sure to rinse them well beforehand to remove excess salt. Adding them at this point will allow them to absorb the flavors from the meat and onion.

6. Adding water and spices:
Pour 2 cups of water into the pot. This step is essential for creating a rich and flavorful sauce. Then, add salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. These spices will enhance the final taste of the dish.

7. Boiling:
Cover the pot and let the dish simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring to prevent sticking. If you notice the sauce getting too thick, you can add a little more water.

8. Finalizing the sauce:
With 10 minutes left before turning off the heat, add the tomato paste. This will give a beautiful color and intensify the sauce's flavor. Taste and adjust the spices as desired.

9. Serving:
The dish is ready! Serve it warm, alongside creamy polenta or a portion of pickles for a crunchy and tangy contrast. You can add a fresh green salad for an extra touch of freshness.

Suggestions and variations:
- You can replace pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add chili peppers or green olives.
- This recipe can also be adapted to include vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, which can be added during boiling.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use green olives?
Absolutely! Green olives will add a different, tangier note.

2. How can I tell if the meat is cooked?
The meat is cooked when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides polenta, you can serve the dish with mashed potatoes or rice.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork, while olives provide healthy fats and antioxidants. The onion adds fiber and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Calories:
A serving of pork with olives (about 150 g of meat and 100 g of olives) contains around 400-450 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the side dishes.

This pork with olives recipe will not only satisfy the taste buds of your loved ones but will also bring a touch of tradition to your table. So, don't hesitate, put on your apron and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!

 Ingredients: 500 g large black olives (Mamut) 1 piece of pork or any other type of meat you prefer 2 small onions 2 tablespoons of tomato paste salt pepper 2 bay leaves 3-4 tablespoons of oil thyme

 Tags:  pork with olives