When the chill of autumn or winter sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty stew. This Creamy Pork Neck Stew is the perfect combination of tender pork, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a dish that warms you from the inside out, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. The pork neck, known for its marbled fat, becomes incredibly tender when cooked slowly, infusing the stew with a deep, savory richness.
The stew is enhanced with the sweetness of red peppers and carrots, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the subtle heat of paprika. The creamy finish rounds out the flavors, making every spoonful a velvety delight. Whether you’re looking for a family meal, a dish to impress guests, or simply a comforting bowl of goodness for yourself, this recipe is a must-try.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Stews have been a cornerstone of home cooking for centuries, beloved for their simplicity, adaptability, and ability to feed a crowd. This particular recipe captures the timeless appeal of a stew, combining traditional flavors with a creamy twist. It’s versatile enough to be served over rice, pasta, or even with crusty bread for dipping. Plus, the ingredients are simple and affordable, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 2 small red peppers, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 250 g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 carrot, diced
Protein and Seasonings:
- 4 slices of pork neck (approximately 600–700 g)
- Salt, to taste
- Granulated garlic, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
Cooking Essentials:
- Olive oil, for frying
- 3 tablespoons tomato puree
- 900 ml broth (chicken, vegetable, or pork)
- 150 ml cream (30% fat)
- 50 ml water
- 1 teaspoon potato starch
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by prepping your vegetables. Dice the red peppers and carrot, finely chop the onion, and slice the mushrooms. Set them aside in separate bowls for easy access during cooking.
2. Season the Pork
Pat the pork neck slices dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and sweet paprika on both sides. This step is crucial for building flavor right from the start.
3. Sear the Pork
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork slices and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the pork and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Lower the heat to medium and sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the red peppers, carrot, and mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Build the Base of the Stew
Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato puree, letting it cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Add the rosemary and a touch more sweet paprika if desired.
6. Simmer the Stew
Return the seared pork to the pot. Pour in 900 ml of broth, ensuring the pork is mostly submerged. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Finish with Cream
In a small bowl, whisk together 50 ml of water and 1 teaspoon of potato starch to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew, followed by 150 ml of cream. Let the stew simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. Pair it with your choice of side: rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if you’d like.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Tips for Making the Perfect Pork Neck Stew
- Choose Quality Pork: Pork neck is ideal for stews due to its marbled fat, which ensures tender and flavorful meat after slow cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Searing the pork helps lock in flavor and creates a rich fond on the bottom of the pot, which enhances the overall taste of the stew.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the potato starch slightly or reduce the broth during cooking.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes! While pork neck is ideal for its marbling, you can substitute it with pork shoulder or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize the stew with additional vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or green beans. These can add even more flavor and texture.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely. This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Creamy Pork Neck Stew is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to the table. The tender pork melts in your mouth, while the medley of vegetables and creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that lingers long after the last bite. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, offering a sense of togetherness that only a hearty stew can provide.
Its timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. From the humble ingredients to the easy cooking process, this recipe proves that you don’t need a lot of fuss to create something extraordinary. It’s a dish that adapts to your needs, whether you’re looking to impress or simply want to enjoy a cozy night in.
So, the next time you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, give this Creamy Pork Neck Stew a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, a dish you’ll return to time and time again. Enjoy the warmth, the flavor, and the memories it helps create.