I’ve been making this pork stew meat recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in our household. The dish has its roots in traditional European cuisine, where pork was a staple meat. The key to this recipe is the slow cooking process, which breaks down the connective tissue in the meat, making it tender and flavorful.
I love that it’s a one-pot meal, easy to prepare and cook. My family enjoys it because it’s hearty and comforting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The health benefits of this recipe are also a plus – the slow cooking process makes the meat easier to digest, and the vegetables are packed with nutrients.
I’ve served this stew at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a quick weeknight dinner. It’s always a crowd-pleaser. I’ve experimented with different spices and herbs over the years, but the basic recipe remains the same.
The key is to use high-quality ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic. I like to serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes – both ways are delicious! My kids have grown up on this recipe, and now they’re starting to make it on their own.
It’s a great way to spend quality time together as a family, cooking up a storm in the kitchen.
Hearty Pork Stew
4.6 from 1912 votes
This comforting pork stew features tender chunks of pork shoulder simmered in a rich, savory broth with vegetables. It is a one-pot meal that is perfect for cold evenings and feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
👨🍳Directions
1Season the pork cubes with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Add the pork in a single layer and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
4Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pot.
5Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion to the pot.
6Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
7Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
8Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot.
9Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
10Add bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika.
11Stir well to combine all ingredients.
12Bring the stew to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
13Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, until the pork is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
14If a thicker stew is desired, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 3 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry, stir it into the stew, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.
15Remove the bay leaves and taste the stew.
16Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
17Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For extra depth of flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine after searing the pork. This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Watch Video Of How Hearty Pork Stew Works
This pork stew meat recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
When reheating, simply add some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to give it an extra boost of flavor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Pork Stew
Q: What is the ideal cut of pork for this recipe?
A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use pork shoulder or butt, which is cut from the upper portion of the pig’s hindquarters. This cut is ideal because it has a good balance of fat and lean meat, making it perfect for slow cooking. You can also use pork neck bones or shanks for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a pressure cooker! In fact, using a pressure cooker will significantly reduce the cooking time and result in tender meat even faster. Just be sure to adjust the liquid levels accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftover stew?
A: You can store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the stew reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Q: Can I make this recipe without any added sugars?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe without any added sugars by using unsweetened broth or stock instead of regular broth. Additionally, you can reduce or omit any added sweeteners like honey or brown sugar.
Q: How do I know if my pork is cooked through?
A: To check if your pork is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). You can also check by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the meat – if it slides in easily, it’s done.
This hearty egg spinach casserole combines fluffy eggs with tender spinach and melted cheese for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. It is easy to prepare and bak…
Cottage Cheese Scrambled Eggs is a delightful and protein-packed breakfast option. This dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the fluffiness of sc…
A classic Mexican side dish featuring fluffy rice and hearty beans, seasoned with aromatic spices. This recipe is easy to prepare and pairs well with various Me…
A fragrant and versatile Indian spice blend that adds warmth and depth to curries, soups, and roasted vegetables. This homemade masala mix balances earthy cumin…
A creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese baked into a golden, buttery crust. This comforting pie combines tender pasta with a rich cheese sauce and a crispy topping…
This recipe delivers perfectly golden and crispy fried squash slices with a light, seasoned coating. The squash stays tender inside while the outside becomes cr…
