Looking for a dish that warms you from the inside out? This pork and potato stew is your answer. It’s a delightful combination of tender pork, hearty potatoes, and flavorful vegetables, simmered to perfection. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a comforting blend of flavors that will make you feel right at home.
Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of a stew bubbling away in your kitchen. This recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about indulging in the deep, savory flavors that only a slow-cooked meal can provide. It’s a great way to enjoy a cozy evening with family or friends.
This stew is versatile enough to be a family favorite while also being a perfect dish for gatherings. Whether you serve it during winter nights or at family celebrations, the appeal of this hearty stew is undeniable.
Ingredients for the Stew
Crafting a delicious pork and potato stew begins with selecting the right ingredients. The star of the dish is definitely the pork, which should be tender and flavorful, like pork shoulder cut into bite-sized pieces.
Next, you’ll need a variety of vegetables to enhance the stew’s flavor and texture. Diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped onions come together to create a colorful base. Garlic adds a depth of flavor, while thyme and bay leaves infuse the broth with earthy notes.
A good quality chicken or vegetable broth acts as the foundation of the stew, enveloping the ingredients in a warm embrace. Olive oil is essential for browning the meat, adding richness to the overall dish.
Preparation Steps
The process begins by browning the pork in a large pot with olive oil. This step is crucial as it develops the meat’s flavor, creating a savory backdrop for the stew.
Once the pork is browned, it’s time to sauté the vegetables. The onions, carrots, and garlic should be cooked until they become tender and fragrant, adding a sweet and savory dimension to the stew.
After the vegetables are ready, return the browned pork to the pot along with the potatoes and broth. Stir in the herbs and seasonings, ensuring every bit of ingredients is well coated before simmering.
Simmering the Stew
Allowing the stew to simmer is where the magic happens. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low, covering it to let the flavors meld together.
This simmering process generally takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Patience is key here, as the longer cook time allows the pork to become incredibly tender, while the potatoes soak up the savory broth.
During this stage, the aroma wafting through your home will create an inviting atmosphere, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s ready.
Serving Suggestions
When the stew is finally done, it’s time to serve. Remove the bay leaves and taste the stew for seasoning adjustments. Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the rich broth. It makes for a comforting meal, ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Nutritional Information
This warm bowl of stew isn’t just satisfying in flavor but also provides a balanced meal. Each serving contains around 350 calories, with a healthy distribution of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
With 25 grams of protein per serving, it ensures you’re getting a hearty amount of nourishment, while the 15 grams of fat and 30 grams of carbohydrates make it a well-rounded dish.
Sharing this stew with family or friends not only brings happiness to the table but also offers a wholesome option to enjoy together.
Final Thoughts on the Stew
Creating a pork and potato stew is a rewarding experience that goes beyond just cooking. It’s about bringing warmth and comfort into your home, making memories around the dinner table.
The versatility of this dish allows it to be enjoyed on various occasions, from quiet evenings to festive gatherings. Each bowl serves as a reminder of the satisfaction that comes from a lovingly prepared meal.
A Hearty Pork and Potato Stew Recipe
This pork and potato stew features succulent pieces of pork, tender potatoes, and a mix of vegetables, all slowly cooked in a savory broth. The result is a thick, hearty dish that is bursting with flavor, making it ideal for chilly evenings or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the potatoes, broth, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well blended.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
