Pork and thyme potato stew

Potato stew with pork and thyme

Who doesn't love a hearty, warm meal full of flavors? Potato stew with pork and thyme is that kind of dish that reminds you of family meals, the times when simple joys were celebrated with lovingly prepared dishes. This recipe represents a perfect combination of juicy pork and creamy potatoes, enriched with the unmistakable aroma of thyme, turning each serving into a true delicacy.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 700 g pork shoulder (choose a piece with a moderate amount of fat for a juicier stew)
- 1.2 kg potatoes (choose cooking potatoes that hold up well when boiled)
- 1-2 medium onions (white or yellow onion will give a sweet aroma)
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme (fresh thyme can be used for an even more intense flavor)
- 5-6 tablespoons oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can also use olive oil for added flavor)
- 250 ml fresh tomato juice (homemade tomato juice is always the best choice)
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika (add to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork shoulder into uniform cubes, about 3-4 cm. This will allow for even cooking. After cutting the meat, wash it well under cold water to remove impurities. Then, dry it with a kitchen towel to remove excess water.

2. Searing the meat: In a large pot, add 5-6 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the meat cubes and sear them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential, as browning the meat will add a deep and complex flavor to your stew.

3. Adding the onion: Slice the onion thinly and add it to the pot once the meat is browned. Sauté the onion together with the meat, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-6 minutes. At this point, add the thyme, which will infuse the dish with its distinctive aroma.

4. The potatoes: While the onion is sautéing, peel the potatoes and cut them into large cubes, about 4 cm. These will hold up well during boiling and will add consistency to the stew. Add the potatoes to the pot and mix well to combine with the meat and onion.

5. Boiling: Pour hot water into the pot, ensuring it covers the meat and potatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent sticking.

6. Finishing the dish: About 10 minutes before turning off the heat, add the tomato juice, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sweet paprika. These will enhance the flavor of your stew. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.

7. Serving: Once the meat is tender and the potatoes are cooked, turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the stew. This will add a note of freshness and a pleasant appearance.

Serving suggestions: This potato stew with pork is perfect served alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw. You can accompany the meal with fresh bread, ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Variations and suggestions: If you want to experiment, you can add carrots or celery to the recipe to diversify the flavors. You can also substitute pork with chicken or beef, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

Nutritional information: A serving of potato stew with pork (approximately 250 g) contains about 450-500 calories. It is a nutritious meal, rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, thanks to the potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so watch the meat to avoid drying out.
- How can I store the stew? You can store the stew in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The flavor will intensify as it sits.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes, the stew can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer bags.

This potato stew with pork and thyme is more than just a recipe. It is a family story, a ritual of simple joy and authentic taste. So put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the flavor and warmth of this delicious dish!

 Ingredients: 700 g pork shoulder, 1.2 kg potatoes, 1-2 medium onions, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, 5-6 tablespoons oil, 250 ml fresh tomato juice, salt, pepper, sweet paprika