Let me tell you about my absolute favorite cozy dish: Pork Shoulder Stew! I can’t even count how many times I’ve made this recipe because it’s just that good. Every time I whip it up, my kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that has everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” This stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Pork Shoulder Stew Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward with minimal prep time — perfect for busy weeknights!
- Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it a dish you can adapt to your taste.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender pork, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of the stew make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This stew tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prepping!
The Secret to Perfect Pork Shoulder Stew
The key to making this Pork Shoulder Stew truly amazing lies in the slow-cooking process. Cooking the pork shoulder low and slow allows the meat to become incredibly tender and soak up all those fantastic flavors from the broth and vegetables. Trust me, you want to give it the time it deserves! My insider tip? Sear the pork before adding it to the stew — this step creates a lovely caramelization that adds depth to the flavor. You can totally do this!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“I made this for my family last Sunday, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! The flavors were incredible!” — Sarah J.
“This Pork Shoulder Stew is now a staple in our house! It’s easy to make and tastes like a warm hug.” — Mike R.
“I was blown away by how good this tasted! I’ve shared it with all my friends!” — Emily T.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Southwest: Add jalapeños and a dash of cumin for a spicy twist!
- Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh rosemary and thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Sweet and Savory: Toss in some apples or pears for a hint of sweetness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork with mushrooms and add extra beans for protein.
Bonus: Don’t forget to top your stew with fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright finish!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
How long does this stew last in the fridge? It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container!
Can I freeze Pork Shoulder Stew? Absolutely! It freezes well and can last up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I substitute for pork shoulder? You can use pork butt or even beef chuck, but keep in mind the cooking times may vary.
How do I thicken the stew? If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store in airtight containers for optimal freshness.
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
- Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color!
Perfect Occasions for Pork Shoulder Stew
- Family gatherings — everyone will ask for seconds!
- Chilly winter nights when you need a little extra warmth.
- Game day parties, served with a side of cornbread.
- Casual dinner parties — impress your friends with minimal effort!
- Meal prep for busy weeks ahead.
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me through all the details! Now, let’s get to the good part — the recipe!
Pork Shoulder Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar when cooking the stew.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Pork
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder cubes and season with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors and adds depth to your stew!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This will be the flavorful base of your stew.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the seared pork back into the pot, followed by the carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours. This is where the magic happens! The longer you let it cook, the more tender and flavorful the pork will become.
Step 5: Season and Serve
After a few hours, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and I promise, everyone will be begging for your secret!
Nutrition information (per serving): Approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 15g fat. This hearty meal is not only comforting but also nutritious!
Final Thoughts
I hope this Pork Shoulder Stew Recipe becomes a staple in your home like it has in mine. It’s cozy, delicious, and full of flavor that warms your soul. So gather your ingredients, throw on your favorite cooking playlist, and dive into this delightful stew. You won’t regret it!
