When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can beat the hearty and delicious combination of braised pork in tomato sauce. This classic dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying to tuck into. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork
To make the best braised pork in tomato sauce, it’s important to start with the right cut of meat. Look for a well-marbled piece of pork shoulder or pork butt, as these cuts will become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. Trim any excess fat from the meat and cut it into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Searing the Pork
Start by searing the pork in a hot pan to develop flavor and create a nice crust on the outside. Brown the meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the meat to steam instead of sear. Once the pork is browned on all sides, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Building Flavor with Aromatics
Next, add diced onions, garlic, and any other aromatics you like, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to the pan. Cook these vegetables until they’re soft and fragrant, then add a splash of red wine to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This step adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Simmering in Tomato Sauce
Return the seared pork to the pan and pour in a can of crushed tomatoes, along with any additional seasonings you like, such as bay leaves, thyme, or oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan and transfer it to a low oven to braise for several hours. The long, slow cooking process will break down the tough connective tissues in the pork, resulting in fork-tender meat that practically melts in your mouth.
Finishing Touches
Once the pork is tender, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Serve the braised pork in tomato sauce over a bed of creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles for a comforting and soul-satisfying meal.
With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a hearty and delicious dish that will warm you from the inside out. So grab a bottle of red wine, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of braised pork in tomato sauce.