Pork stew with onion

Pork Stew with Onions - A Recipe Full of Nostalgia and Flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn’t fondly remember the days of childhood when the aroma of a steaming stew filled the house and invited us to the table? Pork stew with onions is undoubtedly one of those dishes that brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones. Although we may not prepare it as often now, its unmistakable taste and the satisfaction it provides make it worth every minute spent in preparation.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1.2 kg of lean pork shoulder
- 8-10 onions
- 250 g of tomatoes in their own juice (or fresh tomatoes, depending on the season)
- 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 2 cloves of garlic (optional, for extra flavor)

Practical tips about ingredients:
1. Pork shoulder: Choose a quality, lean pork shoulder to avoid a greasy result. Younger meat is more tender and will cook more evenly.
2. Onions: The onion is the key ingredient that will give flavor and sweetness to the stew. You can choose white or yellow onions, depending on your preference.
3. Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, choose the ripest ones for an intense flavor. If opting for canned tomatoes, ensure they are of good quality.
4. Spices: Sweet paprika will add a delicious aroma, and garlic can provide a more complex flavor if added.

Step by step for a perfect stew:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork shoulder well under cold running water. Then, dry it with a paper towel to remove excess water. Cut the meat into bite-sized cubes.

2. Chopping the onions: Peel, wash, and finely chop the onions. Finely chopped onions will caramelize better and give a more intense flavor to the stew.

3. Browning the meat: In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the pieces of meat and brown them on all sides until golden. This will seal in the juices and add a delicious flavor.

4. Boiling the meat: Once the meat is browned, cover it with hot water, stirring to remove any foam that forms on the surface. Put a lid on and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

5. Adding onions and spices: After the meat has softened, add the chopped onions, salt, and pepper to taste. It’s important to add the spices gradually to avoid over-seasoning. If necessary, add a little hot water to maintain a uniform consistency.

6. Incorporating tomatoes: When the onions become translucent, chop the tomatoes and add them to the pot. The tomatoes will add acidity and balance the flavor of the meat.

7. Finalizing the dish: Let the stew simmer on low heat for another 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the tomato paste and sweet paprika, mixing well to combine the flavors. Let it boil for another 3-4 minutes.

8. Finishing and serving: Once the stew is ready, sprinkle chopped fresh dill on top, and if desired, add chopped garlic. Cover the pot and let it sit for 5 minutes to intensify the flavors.

Serving suggestion: Although pork stew with onions is delightful on its own, paired with warm polenta, you might also choose to serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. A fresh green salad will add a pleasant contrast.

Personalized variant: If you want to add a twist, you can try replacing the pork shoulder with beef or chicken, but adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen. You can also add carrots or bell peppers for an extra splash of color and nutrients.

Nutritional information: A serving of pork stew with onions contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and additional ingredients. It is an excellent source of protein and vitamins while being high in iron, essential for our health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.
2. Can the stew be frozen? Absolutely, the stew freezes excellently. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.
3. What other spices can I use? You can add bay leaves or allspice for a more complex aroma.
4. How can I make the stew spicier? If you enjoy spicy food, you can add chopped hot peppers or chili flakes.

This recipe for pork stew with onions is more than just a meal; it’s a journey into childhood memories, a way to bring family to the table, and create unforgettable moments. So put on your apron, get to work, and enjoy a delicious stew full of love and flavor! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1.2 kg lean pork shoulder 8-10 onions 250 g tomatoes in their own juice 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste 3 tablespoons oil fresh dill salt pepper 1 teaspoon sweet paprika 2 cloves of garlic optional

 Tags:  onion stew