Grandma's Stew
Ingredients: 250 g of pork cut into very small pieces, 3-4 tablespoons of lard, 5-6 small (cherry) tomatoes from the freezer, 1 large bell pepper (finely chopped), also from the freezer, 1 large onion, finely chopped... also from the freezer, salt and pepper to taste, 3 cloves of garlic, 3 cubes of basil (about half a bunch), 350 g of pasta, sour cream for serving.
Stew is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that enjoys popularity in many households. It is usually prepared with homemade pasta, such as wide noodles, and with chicken wings and drumsticks. However, today I will share a delicious version in which I used pork, an ingredient that will provide a rich aroma and a special taste.
To begin, prepare all the necessary ingredients. Finely chop a large onion, a few juicy tomatoes, a colorful bell pepper, and a few cloves of garlic. Also, don’t forget the basil, an aromatic herb that will add a touch of freshness to the dish. The pork should be cut into small cubes, so that it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
In a large pot, add a tablespoon of lard, which will give the dish a velvety texture. When the lard is hot, add the chopped pork and let it brown slightly. Then, add the onion, tomatoes, bell pepper, and garlic (without the basil for now) and mix all the ingredients to combine the flavors. It is important to let them sauté over low heat to develop an inviting aroma.
Once all the ingredients are well combined, add enough water to cover everything. Let the stew simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you notice that the liquid is reducing too much, add a little water. When the meat is almost cooked, it’s time to season with salt and pepper to taste. Now, add the homemade pasta, making sure it is well soaked in the aromatic sauce.
The stew will simmer for a few more minutes, and two minutes before turning off the heat, add the crushed garlic and freshly chopped basil. These ingredients will bring a fresh taste and will perfectly complement the dish. The liquid in the pot should be enough to cook the pasta, but not excessive, as it will be absorbed by the pasta during cooking.
When everything is ready, place the lid on the pot and let the stew rest for a few minutes. Serve the dish with a spoonful of sour cream on top and pickled cucumbers on the side to bring a pleasant contrast of flavors. If you want to bring a modern touch to this traditional dish, instead of water, you can use a combination of water and milk, which will enrich the taste of the pasta. Finally, don’t forget to add grated cheese or parmesan generously, sprinkling freshly chopped basil on top. This version will transform the stew into a refined dish that everyone will surely appreciate. Enjoy your meal!
