Pork and vegetable stew
Pork Stew with Vegetables - A Warm Embrace on a Plate
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Who doesn't love a hot stew on chilly autumn or winter days? This pork stew with vegetables is not just a delicious dish, but also a true embrace on a plate, full of flavors and nutrients. It is a traditional recipe that combines succulent meat with fresh vegetables, offering a rich and comforting taste.
Ingredients:
- 800 g pork neck, cut into cubes
- 4 bell peppers (2 red and 2 green), diced
- 5 onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 medium celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 150 ml red wine
- 3 cans of diced peeled tomatoes (like Amata)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Maggi (or other preferred seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Technique:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork neck into suitable-sized cubes, not too large, so they cook evenly. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meat cubes and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Now it's time to add the carrots and celery. Mix well and let the vegetables soften for 5 minutes.
3. Seasoning: Add the diced bell peppers, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and Maggi seasoning. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
4. Deglazing: Pour the red wine into the pot, stirring gently to lift the flavors from the bottom of the pot. This step will add depth to the stew's taste.
5. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes until the meat is tender. Don't forget to stir occasionally and check the liquid level; if necessary, you can add a little water.
6. Adding the potatoes and zucchini: Once the meat is almost done, add the diced potatoes and zucchini. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer until all the vegetables are well cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Finishing: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the diced peeled tomatoes. Mix well and let it simmer to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serving: Once the stew is ready, serve it hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley, alongside pickles or a fresh salad. It is a perfect meal to enjoy with family or friends.
Useful Tips:
- Choosing the meat: Pork neck is ideal for this recipe due to its fat content, which helps retain moisture and flavor. You can also use other types of meat, such as pork shoulder or even beef, but cooking times will vary.
- Seasonal vegetables: Feel free to use seasonal vegetables or your favorites. Adding peas, green beans, or even mushrooms can further enrich the dish.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy food, add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of hot paprika for an extra kick.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of pork stew with vegetables contains approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the proportions of ingredients used. This recipe provides a good source of protein from the pork, as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The carbohydrates from potatoes and zucchini offer long-lasting energy, while the fiber from the vegetables contributes to healthy digestion.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe to chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.
2. How can I store leftovers?
The stew stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the oven.
3. What drinks pair well with this stew?
I recommend a dry red wine or a pale beer. Additionally, a cold lemonade or iced tea can be an excellent choice.
Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pork stew with vegetables will bring warmth and comfort to your table. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 800 g pork neck, 4 bell peppers - 2 red, 2 green, 5 onions, 1/4 medium celery, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 zucchini, 3-4 carrots, 2 bay leaves, 4-5 medium potatoes, 150 ml red wine, 3 cans diced peeled tomatoes - Amata, salt, pepper, Maggi seasoning to taste 1 teaspoon, thyme 1 teaspoon.
