Savory Pork Stew: A Comforting Family Meal

Port Stew Is a Savory Comforting Meal
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table for a hearty family meal, especially when it’s something as comforting as a pork stew. This dish is perfect for those looking to prepare something in advance—whether for a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday dinner. The best part is that the longer it simmers, the better it tastes. By preparing everything ahead of time, you can simply let the stew cook low and slow while you enjoy time with your family. This is a meal you an even make a day ahead, refrigerate and reheat. The flavor just gets better. The aroma of tender pork and vegetables filling your kitchen is sure to bring everyone together, eager for a warm and satisfying meal.

Did You Know?
Pork stew is a popular dish in many cultures, known for its tender meat and flavorful broth. Pork is a versatile meat that absorbs the flavors of the spices and vegetables it is cooked with, making it a perfect choice for stews. Traditional pork stews often include root vegetables and are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Pork is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals such as thiamin, niacin, and zinc, making this stew a wholesome addition to your meal rotation.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Stew:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pork pieces and brown on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
Personal Tip: Browning the pork adds a deep, rich flavor to the stew, so don’t skip this step!

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Personal Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter quickly.

Cook the Stew:
Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Personal Tip: Add vegetables that hold up well during long cooking times, such as carrots and potatoes.

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Return the browned pork to the pot.
Personal Tip: The red wine adds depth and richness to the stew, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer a lighter taste.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.
Personal Tip: Slow cooking helps tenderize the pork, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Serve:
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Personal Tip: Always discard bay leaves before serving—they can be a choking hazard!

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Personal Tip: Serve with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious broth.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 350, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Fiber: 4g, Sugars: 6g, Protein: 25g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Bulk Buying: Purchase pork shoulder and vegetables in bulk. These ingredients are staples in many recipes, and buying in bulk can reduce the overall cost. Store them in airtight containers or freeze them to keep them fresh and ready for use.
2. Homemade Broth: Save money by making your own broth using leftover bones and vegetable scraps. Simmer them in water with herbs and spices, then strain and use in your recipes. This can be more flavorful and cost-effective than store-bought versions.
3. Vegetable Variations: This stew is versatile and can accommodate various vegetables based on what you have on hand. Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for a different flavor profile.
4. Dairy Alternatives: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you want to add creaminess, consider stirring in a bit of coconut milk or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt before serving.
5. Reusable Storage: Invest in reusable silicone bags or glass containers for storing leftover stew. These are environmentally friendly and can save money over time compared to disposable plastic bags and containers.
6. Energy Efficiency: Cook large batches of the stew and freeze portions for future meals. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient. You can reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.
7. Smart Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portioned containers and thaw as needed. This makes for a convenient and nutritious meal option on busy days.
8. Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of potatoes, use sweet potatoes, parsnips, or butternut squash as a substitute. These alternatives not only save money but also add a unique flavor and extra nutrients to your stew.
9. Learning and Sharing: Engage with online cooking communities for more tips and recipe ideas. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can make cooking more enjoyable and economical. You can discover new techniques, ingredient substitutions, and creative ways to use pantry staples.
10. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your stew, such as a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, to add a unique twist to your recipe. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness.

Let’s Learn About Pork
Pork is one of the most consumed meats globally, and its quality can vary greatly depending on how the animals are raised. Conventional pork production often involves large-scale farming practices, where pigs are raised indoors with limited space. On the other hand, organic and pasture-raised pork come from pigs that are allowed to roam outdoors, eat a natural diet, and are not given antibiotics or growth hormones. While organic pork can be more expensive, it tends to be higher in nutrients and has a richer flavor. For those looking to make conscious food choices, it’s worth considering the farming practices behind the pork you buy.