Onion stew with pork meat

Onion stew with pork shoulder

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of enticing flavors! Today, I will share with you a delicious and comforting recipe for onion stew with pork shoulder, a dish that combines tradition with authentic taste. This stew is perfect for those autumn days when you want to indulge in a hearty meal, full of flavor and warmth.

The history of stew is long, being a dish appreciated in numerous cultures for its versatility and simplicity. Whether it's a family meal or a dinner with friends, stew brings people together, offering not just food, but also unforgettable moments.

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork shoulder (choose meat with a small amount of fat for a richer taste)
- 4 large onions (for an intense flavor, choose yellow or white onions)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (optional, but adds freshness)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or green, for a splash of color)
- 100 ml tomato juice (choose a quality juice without additives)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- A handful of chopped fresh parsley (for a fresh finish)
- 2 bay leaves (for added aroma)
- Oil (for frying, use sunflower oil or olive oil)
- Hot pepper (optional, for a spicier taste)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (optional, for a richer texture)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork shoulder well under cold running water. Then, cut the meat into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This will allow for even cooking and will keep the meat juicy.

2. Frying the meat: In a large skillet, heat about 3-4 tablespoons of oil. When the oil is hot, add the cubes of pork. Fry them on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is browned, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Let the onions sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent (about 5 minutes). Then, add the diced bell pepper and chopped tomatoes. Let them sauté together for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Seasoning: After the vegetables have softened, add the tomato paste, tomato juice, and bay leaves. Mix the ingredients well, then add the browned meat back into the skillet. Cover everything with water (about 300 ml) and add salt, pepper, and, if desired, hot pepper. Let the stew simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the meat becomes tender and the sauce thickens.

5. Finishing the dish: Finally, before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top to add a touch of freshness. At this point, you can adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.

Practical tips:
- If you want a thicker sauce, let the stew simmer longer until the liquid reduces.
- This recipe is very versatile! You can experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots or celery, giving the dish a personal touch.
- Instead of pork shoulder, this stew can also be made with beef or chicken, adjusting the cooking time depending on the type of meat used.
- Serve the stew with polenta, fresh bread, or mashed potatoes for a complete lunch or dinner.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork is an excellent source of protein, and onions, besides providing a delicious taste, are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen pork?
Yes, make sure to thaw the meat well before frying to achieve an even texture.

2. How can I store the stew for later?
It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven before serving.

3. What wine is recommended for this recipe?
A dry white wine or a light red wine pairs excellently with the stew, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

4. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add more hot pepper or a pinch of paprika, depending on your preferences.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms or tofu, adding extra spices to achieve a rich flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to diversify the flavors.

Serve this onion stew with a glass of red wine or a refreshing drink to complete the meal. This will surely be a recipe that brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones and creates pleasant memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g pork meat, 4 onions, 2 tomatoes, 1 bell pepper, 100 ml tomato juice, pepper, salt, fresh parsley, 2 bay leaves, oil, chili pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste

 Tags:  onion stew