Cozy Pork and Apple Stew: A Heartwarming Autumn Recipe
45
min
366
Calories
15g
Fats
15g
Carbs
34g
Protein
Embrace the flavors of autumn with this Cozy Pork and Apple Stew, perfect for warming up your evening. In under 45 minutes, indulge in a dish that artfully combines tender pork, crisp apples, and a bouquet of herbs, creating a delicious harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin your culinary adventure by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. Take pleasure in this moment, as the array of colors and textures promise a dish filled with depth and flavor. First, season the pork pieces generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This initial step is crucial for building the layers of flavor that characterize a comforting stew.
Pro Tip: Pat the pork dry before seasoning for an extra-crisp sear.
Step 2: Brown the Pork
Heat grapeseed oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the pork in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures a beautiful golden sear on each piece. This step not only enhances the pork's flavor but also contributes rich, meaty undertones to the stew’s base. Once browned, transfer the pork to a plate and set aside. The fond, those delightful browned bits left in the bottom of the pot, will soon lend incredible depth to your stew.
Pro Tip: Avoid moving the pork too soon to achieve a perfect sear.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and introduce the sliced fennel, chopped onion, and shredded cabbage. The remnants of pork dripping will act as a flavorful foundation, enriching the vegetables with a complex character. Stir occasionally and sauté until the vegetables soften and become aromatic, about 5 minutes. This is where your stew starts to develop its rich, comforting layers, with each vegetable contributing its unique notes.
Pro Tip: Adding a pinch of salt helps to draw moisture out of the vegetables, softening them quicker.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, stirring to scrape up the fond. This step not only cleans the pot but also infuses the stew with a rich, nuanced base. Once the wine is slightly reduced, return the pork to the pot along with apple cider, chicken broth, chopped apples, bay leaves, rosemary, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. The slow cook process tenderizes the pork and melds the flavors into a harmonious blend. The apples disintegrate slightly, thickening the stew and adding a natural sweetness that complements the savory elements.
Pro Tip: Keep the lid ajar during simmering to allow some evaporation for a thicker stew.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
As the stew nears completion, remove the bay leaves, rosemary, and parsley sprigs. Their essence has been fully imparted into the stew, leaving behind an intricate layering of flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the stew piping hot, perhaps with a garnish of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This Pork and Apple Stew is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings when warmth and wholesomeness are most desired.
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley before serving does wonders.
