There’s something about a hearty pork stew that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket while the world outside whispers tales of falling leaves and early sunsets. Whether it’s the tender chunks of pork or the aromatic blend of herbs and spices, this dish is a comforting embrace for the soul—perfect for nights when all you want is something simple yet profoundly satisfying.
Steps
- Fry the bacon in a large pot until crispy, then remove it, keeping the fat in the pot.
- Trim the pork shoulder of excess fat and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Brown these pork pieces in the bacon fat and set them aside with the bacon.
- Sauté diced carrots and onions in the pot until softened, then add minced garlic.
- Mix in tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, and Italian seasoning with a wooden spoon.
- Return the browned pork and bacon to the pot and pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 90 minutes.
- Add larger carrot pieces and potatoes, and continue simmering until they are tender, around 30 more minutes.
- Combine flour and butter, stir this mixture into the stew to thicken it, and let it simmer for a few more minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder, trimmed of fat, cut into stew-sized pieces
- Waxy Yukon Gold potatoes
- Yellow onions
- Carrots
- Lots of fresh garlic
- Tomato paste
- Bay leaves
- Fresh thyme
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Bacon slices
- Chicken stock (or beef stock for a richer flavor)
- Flour
- Butter
FAQ
- Can I prepare pork stew in advance?
- Absolutely! Pork stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Is it possible to freeze pork stew?
- Yes, pork stew freezes well. Allow it to cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months.
- What kind of potatoes work best in pork stew?
- Waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, are ideal for pork stew as they maintain their texture and cook beautifully.
- Can I substitute chicken stock with a different type of stock?
- Certainly! While chicken stock is recommended, beef stock can be used for a slightly richer flavor.
- How can I enhance the flavor of my pork stew?
- Consider adding a splash of white wine (no more than ¼ cup) right before mixing in the tomato paste for an extra depth of flavor.
Tips
- When preparing the pork shoulder, ensure to trim off any excess fat for a leaner stew. If you’re unsure, ask your butcher to help you with this step.
- For the best flavor, brown the pork pieces in the bacon fat. This adds a smoky richness to the stew, enhancing its depth of flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of white wine before incorporating the tomato paste to elevate the stew’s flavor profile.
- The stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, or frozen for up to two months, making it a convenient meal prep option.
Equipment
- Large Dutch Oven or Stockpot – Essential for cooking the stew and browning the meat.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – For trimming and cutting the pork shoulder and vegetables.
- Wooden Spoon – For stirring the stew and incorporating ingredients.
- Meat Thermometer – Optional, but useful for ensuring the pork is cooked to the right internal temperature.
