Comfort in a Bowl: Homemade Pork Stew Recipe

 When the weather cools down and you crave something hearty and soul-warming, few dishes can compare to the comfort of a pork stew. This one-pot wonder combines tender pieces of pork, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that feels just like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you're cooking for your family or preparing meals ahead of time, this pork stew recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Let's get started.

Ingredients You'll Need

For this recipe, you'll need a mix of everyday ingredients and simple seasonings, all working together for a perfect balance of flavors. Here's what you'll need:

For the Pork Stew:

• 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

How to Prepare Pork Stew

Follow these simple steps to achieve a flavorful, hearty stew that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 1: Get Your Ingredients Prepped

Before you start cooking, cut your pork, chop the veggies, and measure out your ingredients. This will make the cooking process much more seamless.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the pork cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot—this ensures the meat gets a good crust! Once browned, transfer the pork to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Using the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, then stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared pork to the pot, then add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken or beef broth and water, making sure the pork and veggies are mostly submerged. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the stew to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking time allows the pork to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

If you'd like a thicker stew (and who wouldn't?), whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of the hot broth in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Add the frozen peas at this time, too, for a pop of color and sweetness.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. If you're feeling fancy, sprinkle each bowl with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pork stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth. You could also serve it over a bed of steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even egg noodles to make it extra filling. For a lighter option, pair it with a side of leafy greens or a simple salad.

Customization Tips

• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms. Whatever you have on hand!
• Change up the protein: This recipe works just as well with beef stew meat or chicken thighs.
• Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce will do the trick.
• Make it gluten-free: Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

Closing Thoughts

This pork stew is more than just a meal—it's a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or saving it for cozy leftovers, each bite promises warmth and satisfaction. So grab that stockpot, cozy up in the kitchen, and enjoy the magic of a hearty homemade pork stew!