Description
Creamy Pork and Vegetable Stew
Ingredients
1 lb pork shoulder, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp curry powder (optional)
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Sliced apples (optional, for serving)
Directions
Sear pork: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season pork with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Build the stew: Return pork to the pot. Stir in chicken broth, thyme, and curry powder (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 25 minutes.
Add peas and cream: Stir in peas and heavy cream. In a small bowl, whisk flour with a little water to form a slurry, then stir it into the stew to thicken. Simmer for 10 more minutes.
Season and serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh chives and serve with rice and optional sliced apples.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 390 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your pork shoulder is cut into uniform, 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Pat the cubes completely dry with paper towels before seasoning; this is crucial for achieving a proper sear. When searing the pork in the hot oil, avoid crowding the pot. Work in batches if necessary to get a deep brown crust on all sides, which builds the stew’s foundational flavor. After removing the pork, scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the pot bottom as you sauté the vegetables—this is flavor gold. When simmering the stew, keep it at a gentle bubble, not a rolling boil, to keep the pork tender. For the thickening slurry, ensure the flour and water mixture is completely smooth before stirring it in to prevent lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy stew is incredibly versatile. For a classic presentation, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, mashed potatoes, or buttery egg noodles to soak up the rich sauce. The optional sliced apples on the side provide a refreshing, crisp contrast. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Crusty bread is also a must for dipping.
How-to Summary
In brief: Sear seasoned pork cubes until browned and set aside. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in the same pot. Return pork, add broth and herbs, then simmer for 25 minutes. Stir in peas and cream, thicken with a flour-water slurry, and simmer for 10 more minutes. Season to taste and garnish with chives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew ahead of time? Absolutely. This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it has thickened too much.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, full-fat coconut milk is an excellent substitute that complements the optional curry powder. Alternatively, you can use half-and-half, but avoid boiling it vigorously to prevent curdling.
Can I use a different cut of pork? Yes. Pork tenderloin can be used, but add it later in the cooking process as it cooks faster and can become dry. Sear it first, then add it back to the stew only for the final 10-15 minutes of simmering.
How can I make this gluten-free? Easily substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder for thickening. Mix one tablespoon with two tablespoons of cold water to create your slurry.
My stew is too thin/thick. How can I fix it? If too thin, create a bit more flour slurry and simmer for a few more minutes. If too thick, simply stir in additional chicken broth or water, a quarter cup at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not searing the pork properly: This step is non-negotiable for building deep flavor. Don’t rush it.
- Adding the cream too early: Cream should be added near the end to prevent it from separating or becoming grainy.
- Using boiling liquid to thicken: Always mix flour with cold water first to create a slurry. Adding raw flour directly to the hot stew will cause lumps.
- Overcooking the peas: If using frozen peas, they only need a few minutes in the hot stew. Adding them at the end preserves their color and texture.
Conclusion
This creamy pork and vegetable stew is the epitome of hearty, satisfying comfort food. Its rich sauce, tender pork, and vibrant vegetables come together in under an hour, making it a practical yet impressive choice for any weeknight dinner. The recipe is forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to tweak the vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, cozy results.