Are you looking for a hearty and comforting meal to warm you up on a cold winter day? Look no further than pork stew!
This one-pot wonder is packed with juicy pork stew meat, tender root vegetables, and a thick broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy.
But what exactly is pork stew meat? And what makes it the perfect cut for this delicious dish?
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about pork stew meat, including the best cuts to use, how to cook it to perfection, and some tasty recipe ideas to get you started.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
What Is Pork Stew Meat?
Pork stew meat is the meat from the pig, usually coming from the shoulder area, that is cut into small chunks or cubes. It is a great choice for making stew because it has a good amount of collagen that will keep the meat moist and tender despite the slow cooking process of stewing.
Stewing is when you cook these smaller chunks submerged in liquid as opposed to braising where the meat is not completely submerged. This is great for tough cuts of meat that are inexpensive and not too lean to dry out easily. Pork stew meat is perfect for this cooking method because it has enough fat to keep it moist and tender while cooking.
The Best Cuts Of Pork Stew Meat
When it comes to choosing the best cuts of pork stew meat, it’s important to consider the cooking method you’ll be using. Tougher and more flavorful cuts like pork shoulder or pork sirloin are perfect for the low and slow cooking method, as they turn succulent and fork-tender in the slow cooker. These cuts are also well-marbled with fat, which adds flavor and moisture to the dish.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quicker cook time, leaner cuts like pork tenderloin are a great choice. These cuts benefit from roasting instead of stewing, as they become tender in a shorter amount of time.
If you’re looking for pork shoulder, it’s often called Boston butt pork roast and is a fattier cut with a lot of flavor that needs to cook for a long time. Pork sirloin, also known as pork butte, is another great option for stewing meat.
You can also make your own pork stewing meat by buying a picnic or butt roast and cubing it up yourself, or by chopping up a pork butt steak or two. Don’t forget that pork bones can be used to make a broth for dishes like Ramen Noodles, so don’t throw them away!
How To Cook Pork Stew Meat To Perfection
Cooking pork stew meat to perfection requires a few simple steps. First, season the pork with salt and pepper on all sides. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the pork and sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove the pork and transfer it to a plate, leaving the grease in the pot.
Next, reduce the heat to medium and add in your vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and thyme. Stir and cook for 3 minutes. Then add the pork back into the pot along with chicken broth, tomato puree, white wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir everything together and increase the heat to bring it to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook for around 25 minutes over medium-low heat until the carrots and potatoes are soft. At this point, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more salt and pepper if needed.
Another method for cooking pork stew meat involves browning the pork cubes in oil on all sides before adding aromatics such as garlic, paprika, and thyme. Deglaze the pan with broth and add tomato sauce and bay leaf. Simmer until the meat is cooked through.
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to cook the pork stew meat low and slow for a long time to allow it to become tender and flavorful. Pork stew meat is a great choice for a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for colder weather or anytime you want something filling and delicious.
Delicious Pork Stew Recipe Ideas To Try At Home
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal to warm you up on a cold day, pork stew is a great option. Here are some recipe ideas to try at home:
1. Stovetop Pork Stew: This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Brown the pork cubes in olive oil and add aromatics like garlic, paprika, and thyme. Deglaze the pan with broth and add tomato sauce and bay leaf. Simmer until the meat is cooked through and serve with roasted potatoes or rice.
2. Dutch Oven Pork Stew: This recipe is perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon when you have more time to cook. Brown the pork with onions in olive oil and set aside. Add broth, tomatoes, and spices to the pot and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom. Add the pork back into the pot and simmer covered for an hour until tender. Add potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and green beans and simmer until vegetables are tender.
3. Spicy Pork Stew: If you like a little kick in your stew, try adding Anaheim peppers or jalapeno peppers to your recipe. You can also use spicy sausage instead of regular pork for added heat.
4. Fire-Roasted Pork Stew: For extra flavor, fire-roast your peppers, tomatoes, and onions before adding them to your stew. You can do this on a grill or in the oven at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes.
No matter which recipe you choose, pork stew is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
