Why You’ll Love this Slow-Cooked Pork Stew Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, you’ll absolutely love this slow-cooked pork stew recipe. The rich flavors meld together beautifully over hours, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
I appreciate how the tender pork absorbs the seasonings, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just throw everything in the crock pot and let it do the work!
The combination of vegetables adds a touch of sweetness and color, making it not just delicious but visually appealing too. Trust me, this stew will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients of Slow-Cooked Pork Stew
When it comes to making a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, this slow-cooked pork stew is a real gem. It’s a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma of tender pork and savory vegetables wafting through the air. Can you picture it? It just makes you want to curl up on the couch with a bowl of this goodness.
Now, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to bring this delightful stew to life.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs lean pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 ounces baby carrots
- 3 large new potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 parsnips, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, cut into wedges
- 2 leeks, thoroughly washed and sliced into 1-inch strips
- 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 (8-ounce) packet frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1 pint vegetable juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 4 teaspoons tapioca
Now, let’s talk about some considerations for these ingredients. First off, the pork loin is a fantastic choice for this stew because it’s lean, but if you prefer a bit more flavor, you could opt for pork shoulder instead. It’s a little fattier, which means it can add even more richness to the dish.
And those vegetables? Well, feel free to mix and match based on what you have in your fridge. Got some bell peppers or zucchini? Toss them in! The beauty of this stew is its flexibility. Just remember to keep the cooking times in mind if you decide to change things up.
Oh, and about that tapioca—don’t let it scare you. It’s the secret ingredient that thickens the stew beautifully, giving it that luscious texture. So embrace it; who knows, it might just become a new favorite in your pantry.
How to Make Slow-Cooked Pork Stew
Making the slow-cooked pork stew is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as stew? First things first, grab your 2 pounds of lean pork loin and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Trust me, this is going to be the star of your dish. Toss those cubes right into your trusty crock pot.
Next, it’s time to add some color and nutrition. You’ll want to throw in 8 ounces of baby carrots, 3 large new potatoes (also cut into 1-inch cubes), 2 parsnips, 1 onion cut into wedges, and 2 leeks that have been thoroughly washed and sliced into 1-inch strips. There’s something about chopping veggies that just feels therapeutic, doesn’t it?
And don’t forget those 6 finely chopped garlic cloves; they’re like the secret agents of flavor in this stew.
Now, let’s make your stew sing with flavor. Add in that 1 (8-ounce) packet of thawed and well-drained frozen spinach—yes, spinach. It adds a pop of color and nutrients that you won’t even taste, but your body will thank you.
Season it all with a couple of teaspoons of fresh ground black pepper and a teaspoon of salt. If you’re like me and tend to sprinkle salt like you’re in a cooking competition, just remember: you can always add more later, but you can’t take it back.
Now, in a medium bowl, mix together 1 pint of vegetable juice, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 4 teaspoons of tapioca. I know, tapioca sounds a bit fancy, but it’s just a thickening agent that’ll make your stew have that velvety texture we all crave.
Pour this delicious concoction over everything in the crock pot.
Cover the pot and set it on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. Seriously, let that magic happen. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have you drooling long before it’s time to eat.
If you’re feeling a bit old-school, you can also make this in a large casserole dish, just make sure to cover it tightly and bake it at 135°C (275°F) for 5 hours. No peeking! Just let it do its thing.
When it’s finally done, you’ll be greeted by tender pork and perfectly cooked veggies swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. You might even want to curl up with a bowl and a blanket, because trust me, this stew is like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Slow-Cooked Pork Stew Substitutions & Variations
Have you ever thought about switching things up in your slow-cooked pork stew? I love experimenting with different ingredients!
For instance, you can swap out the pork loin for chicken or beef for a new flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of spinach, try kale or Swiss chard instead.
I’ve also played around with adding beans for extra protein. As for vegetables, feel free to toss in bell peppers or zucchini.
And if you’re short on time, use store-bought broth instead of vegetable juice. Each variation makes the dish uniquely yours, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
What to Serve with Slow-Cooked Pork Stew
What goes best with a hearty slow-cooked pork stew? I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping, which soaks up all those delicious juices.
A simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a revitalizing crunch. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes complement the stew beautifully.
I also enjoy pairing it with buttery cornbread, which brings a nice sweetness to the meal. For a touch of warmth, a glass of red wine enhances the flavors.
These sides not only balance the dish but elevate the entire dining experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although cooking a slow-cooked pork stew is straightforward, a few tips can enhance the final dish.
First, searing the pork before adding it to the crock pot can intensify the flavors. I also recommend adjusting the seasoning after cooking; taste it first, then add more salt or pepper if needed.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or some fresh herbs, like parsley, right before serving.
Ultimately, let the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking; it thickens up nicely. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference in your stew’s overall taste!