Braising is a cooking method that uses low heat and liquid to slowly cook tough cuts of meat, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes. One of the most popular dishes to braise is pork, which becomes incredibly succulent and delicious when cooked in a rich, savory broth.
Choose the Right Cut of Pork
When making a braised pork stew, it’s important to choose the right cut of pork. Look for tough, inexpensive cuts like pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts have lots of connective tissue that breaks down during the braising process, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Brown the Pork
To achieve maximum flavor in your braised pork stew, it’s essential to brown the meat before braising. Heat some oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot and sear the pork on all sides until nicely browned. This helps to caramelize the meat and develop a rich, deep flavor in the stew.
Add Aromatics and Liquid
Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and add in some chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook the vegetables until they are softened, then add some garlic, herbs, and spices for extra flavor. Deglaze the pot with some wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Braise the Pork
Return the pork to the pot and add enough liquid (such as broth, wine, or water) to cover the meat about halfway. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to a low oven or stovetop. Let the pork braise slowly for several hours, until it is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together.
Finish and Serve
Once the pork is done braising, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Skim any excess fat off the surface of the stew, then return the pork to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the braised pork stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Enjoy!
Braised pork stew is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for chilly nights or special occasions. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and flavorful pork stew that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. So, savor the flavor and enjoy every bite of this perfect braised pork stew!