Celery and Wine Stew
Ingredients: 800 g celery, 500 g carrots, 500 ml red wine, 1.5 kg pork meat, 50 ml oil, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf
To prepare a delicious dish, we start by preparing the basic ingredients. The carrots and celery are carefully peeled and then cut into medium-sized pieces, not too small, to retain their texture and flavor during cooking. This combination of vegetables will add a sweet note and depth of flavor to the dish. The meat, ideally beef or pork, is cut into thick strips of about 1-1.5 cm, so that it cooks evenly and remains juicy.
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. It is important for the oil to be hot enough, but not so hot that it smokes, to achieve an even browning of the meat. Once the oil is ready, add the strips of meat to the pot, being careful not to overcrowd, to allow for efficient browning. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the meat changes color and browns slightly. At this stage, the meat will release its juices, and the browning process will turn into a slow simmer.
After the meat is browned, add the vegetable pieces, salt, white wine, and freshly ground pepper. These ingredients combine perfectly, and the wine will help enhance the flavors. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about an hour. It is essential not to add water, as the juices from the meat and vegetables will be sufficient to create a delicious sauce. If you notice that the liquid decreases too much, you can add a little wine.
In the last 20 minutes of cooking, add the bay leaves, which will provide a distinct aromatic flavor. It is important to adjust the amount of bay leaf according to your preferences, as its aroma can vary in intensity. Finally, make sure that the dish is well-cooked and that the flavors have combined harmoniously. Serve the dish warm, alongside a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, for a complete and tasty meal. This simple yet flavorful recipe will turn an ordinary day into a memorable culinary experience.
