Green Beans with Pork

Pork and Onion Green Beans Recipe from Romania

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Green Beans with Pork is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender pork with fresh green beans and flavorful tomatoes. This recipe is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Green Beans with Pork is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in many cultures around the world. The combination of pork and green beans is a popular one, as the flavors of the meat and vegetables complement each other perfectly.

Ingredients

1.75 lb / 750 g of pork
2 lb / 1 kg of green beans
2 onions
1 tbsp of lard
4 – 5 tomatoes
0.5 tsp of flour
salt
minced parsley and dill

How to prepare

Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces and fry them in the lard.
Add the finely chopped onions and let them fry briefly.
Add the flour and mix well.
Pour tepid water over the meat to cover it.
Add the salt and let it boil over low heat for half an hour.
Add the beans and boil until they are tender.
Then add the separately boiled and drained tomatoes, as well as the chopped parsley and dill.
Place in the oven until most of the liquid has evaporated.
If you prefer, you can use grated raw onions instead of fried onions.
In that case, add them along with the water.

Variations

Add some diced potatoes to the dish for extra heartiness.
Use chicken or beef instead of pork for a different flavor.
Add some chopped bell peppers or carrots for added color and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the pork into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Frying the meat in lard adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to cook the green beans until they are tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

- Adding flour to the meat helps to thicken the sauce and create a delicious gravy.

- Garnish with minced dill for a fresh and aromatic finish.

Serving Suggestions

Green Beans with Pork can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or crusty bread. It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of frying, boiling, and baking to create a flavorful and tender dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Olive oil can be used instead of lard for a healthier option.

- Any type of meat can be used in place of pork, such as chicken or beef.

Make Ahead Tips

Green Beans with Pork can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Green Beans with Pork in a large serving dish garnished with fresh dill for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and fruity red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Green Beans with Pork contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Green Beans with Pork is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the green beans and tomatoes.

Fats

The lard used in this recipe adds a small amount of fat to the dish, but it can easily be substituted with a healthier oil if desired.

Proteins

Pork is a rich source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and filling meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Green beans are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains pork, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Green Beans with Pork is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Green Beans with Pork is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With a rich and savory flavor, tender pork, and fresh green beans, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, with her garden. She was a sweet old lady who always had a kind word and a delicious treat for me whenever I stopped by.

As a token of her appreciation for my help, Mrs. Jenkins handed me a piece of paper with a handwritten recipe on it. It was for Green Beans with Pork, a dish she had learned to make from her own grandmother many years ago. She told me that it was a family favorite and that I simply had to try it.

I was intrigued by the recipe, as I had never heard of Green Beans with Pork before. I thanked Mrs. Jenkins profusely and tucked the recipe into my apron pocket, eager to give it a try.

That evening, I gathered the ingredients listed on the recipe: fresh green beans, pork loin, onions, garlic, and a few seasonings. The instructions were simple and straightforward, but I approached the dish with care and attention to detail.

I washed and trimmed the green beans, cut the pork loin into bite-sized pieces, and minced the onions and garlic. As the ingredients sizzled in the pan, the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply divine. The savory scent of cooking pork mingled with the earthy freshness of the green beans, creating a tantalizing symphony of flavors.

I let the dish simmer gently on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender and juicy. When it was finally ready, I ladled the Green Beans with Pork onto a serving platter and set it on the dining table.

My family gathered around eagerly, their mouths watering at the delicious smell wafting from the dish. As they took their first bites, their faces lit up with delight. The Green Beans with Pork were a hit, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished favorite in our household.

Over the years, I have made Green Beans with Pork countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have added a dash of soy sauce for extra umami flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and even a handful of sliced mushrooms for a touch of earthiness.

I have shared this recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have complimented me on the dish. Each time I pass on the recipe, I feel a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that was passed down to me by a dear friend.

Green Beans with Pork has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress and satisfy. It is a testament to the power of sharing recipes and the joy that comes from creating and enjoying delicious food with loved ones.

As I sit here reminiscing about the first time I made Green Beans with Pork, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful people who have shared their recipes with me over the years. Each one has added a unique flavor to my culinary journey, enriching my life in ways that words cannot express.

So the next time you come across a new recipe that piques your interest, don't hesitate to give it a try. You never know where it might lead you or who it might connect you with. And who knows, you just might discover a new family favorite that will bring joy and delight to your loved ones for years to come.