Pork Stew Two Ways

Pork Stew Two Ways Recipe from Mexico | Delicious and Hearty

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour (rangetop) or 5 hours on high/10 hours on low (slow cooker) | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Pork stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe offers two different cooking methods - on the stovetop or in a slow cooker - so you can choose the one that works best for your schedule. The combination of tender pork, flavorful broth, and aromatic spices makes this stew a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Pork stew has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, depending on the region and the cook's preferences. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mexican flavors, with the addition of ancho chiles and hominy.

Ingredients

1 tbsp oil
0.75 lb (340 g) boneless pork shoulder, cut in chunks
3 cups coarsely chopped onions
2 tbsp minced garlic
4 cups chicken broth
2 ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed, rinsed
1 tsp dried oregano
15 oz (425 g) can white hominy or corn kernels, drained

How to prepare

Heat oil in a saucepan.
Add pork and brown it on all sides.
Add onion and garlic and cook until lightly browned.

Rangetop

Add broth, chiles, and oregano.
Bring it to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1 hour or until the pork is tender.
Add hominy and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

Slow cooker

Put the browned pork, onion, and garlic in the cooker along with broth, chiles, oregano, and hominy.
Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or low for 10 hours.
Skim off and discard any skins from the chiles.
Ladle the stew into soup bowls and serve with shredded lettuce, chopped plum tomatoes, slivered onion, and lime wedges.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Use beef or chicken instead of pork for a different twist on the recipe.
Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or smoked paprika, to customize the flavor of the stew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, you can brown the pork in batches before adding the onions and garlic.

- If you prefer a spicier stew, you can add more ancho chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

- To save time, you can use pre-chopped onions and minced garlic from the store.

- Make sure to skim off any excess fat that rises to the top of the stew before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pork stew with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork before adding the other ingredients helps to develop a rich flavor in the stew.

- Simmering the stew slowly allows the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find ancho chiles, you can use dried guajillo or pasilla chiles instead.

- Substitute canned hominy with canned white beans or corn if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stew up to a day in advance and reheat it before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pork stew in individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a drizzle of hot sauce for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This pork stew pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine or a cold beer also complements the rich flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 32g

Dietary Fiber: 4g

Sugars: 7g

Fats

Total Fat: 10g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

Vitamin C: 15%

Calcium: 6%

Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This pork stew is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pork stew is a classic dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe offers two different cooking methods and is packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you choose to make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this pork stew is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Pork Stew Two Ways. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, able to whip up delicious meals with what seemed like little effort. I was always in awe of her skills and eager to learn from her.

One summer day, as we sat together in her cozy kitchen, she pulled out an old, weathered cookbook that had been passed down through generations. As she flipped through the pages, her eyes lit up when she came across the recipe for Pork Stew Two Ways. She explained to me that this was a special recipe that had been passed down in our family for years, and she was excited to teach me how to make it.

The first way to make the stew was a traditional recipe that used simple ingredients like pork shoulder, onions, carrots, potatoes, and a flavorful broth. The second way was a more modern twist that added spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder for a bolder flavor. Both versions sounded delicious, and I couldn't wait to try my hand at making them.

As my grandmother guided me through the process, I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, seasoned the meat, and simmered everything together in a large pot. The kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of the stew, and I could hardly contain my excitement as I waited for it to finish cooking.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived as my grandmother ladled the steaming stew into bowls and served it with a side of crusty bread. I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a culinary paradise. The pork was tender and juicy, the vegetables were perfectly cooked, and the broth was rich and flavorful. It was a dish that warmed my soul and made me feel connected to my family's culinary heritage.

From that day on, Pork Stew Two Ways became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I would often make it for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a comforting meal on a cold winter's night. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and gratitude for my grandmother's guidance and the legacy of delicious recipes she had passed down to me.

Over the years, I have made small tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch or experimenting with different ingredients. But no matter how I choose to make it, the essence of the dish remains the same – a hearty, comforting stew that brings joy and warmth to all who enjoy it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of learning to make Pork Stew Two Ways with my grandmother, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the tradition and love that went into creating this recipe. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, connecting me to my family's past and bringing me closer to those I hold dear.

And so, as I continue to share this recipe with others and pass it down to future generations, I do so with the hope that it will bring them as much joy and comfort as it has brought me. Cooking is more than just preparing a meal – it is a way to connect with our roots, honor our heritage, and create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.