This is one of those dishes that brings to the table the flavor and warmth of Romanian traditions. With tender meat and a rich sauce full of the aromas of caramelized onion, garlic, and fresh tomatoes, this pork stew is ideal for any family meal. The combination with hot, creamy polenta makes every bite a true delight. As the taste of the stew blends harmoniously with that of the polenta, the authentic charm is perfected with a salad or traditional pickles.
For a complete experience, we recommend pairing the pork stew with polenta with the following side dishes:
Recommended Salads
White cabbage salad: refreshing and slightly crunchy, it perfectly balances the richness of the stew.
Beetroot salad: with a slightly sweet taste and fine texture, it harmoniously complements the flavors of the dish.
Cucumber and tomato salad: simple, fresh, and with a touch of vinegar or lemon juice, it adds freshness to the meal.
Recommended Pickles
Pickled peppers (gogoșari in vinegar): sweet and sour, they offer an excellent contrast to the pork meat.
Pickled cucumbers: their intense flavor and crunchy texture perfectly complement the stew and polenta.
Sauerkraut: a traditional accompaniment, adding extra flavor and freshness to every bite.
This combination of flavors transforms the pork stew with polenta into an unforgettable feast, a true tribute to the traditional Romanian taste.
Ingredients for Pork Stew
500 g pork meat (leg or neck, cut into cubes)
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 tablespoons oil
200 ml tomato juice or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
200 ml water or meat broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley) for garnish
Ingredients for Polenta
1 liter water
250 g cornmeal
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Pork Stew:
In a deep pot, heat the oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until golden, then add the bell pepper and garlic, stirring for a few more minutes. Add the pork cubes and cook them until browned on all sides. Pour in the tomato juice, tomato paste, bay leaf, and water or meat broth, then season with salt and pepper. Cover the pot and let the pork stew simmer over low heat for about 40–50 minutes, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Preparing the Polenta:
In a pot, bring 1 liter of water with a little salt to a boil. When the water starts boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta over low heat, stirring continuously, for 10–15 minutes, until it becomes thick and creamy. When ready, turn it out onto a platter and cut into portions as desired.
Serving:
Serve the hot pork stew alongside warm polenta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for extra color and aroma.
Enjoy! This pork stew with polenta is a classic delight, perfect for weekend lunches or family meals, bringing the authentic taste of home cooking.
Drink Pairings for Pork Stew with Polenta
Traditional Drinks
Țuica – This traditional Romanian drink, made from plums, is known for its strong flavor and is ideal as an aperitif, preparing the taste buds for a hearty meal.
Dry or semi-dry red wine – A red wine such as Fetească Neagră or Merlot, with balanced tannins, pairs perfectly with pork, adding depth and balance to the taste.
Semi-dry white wine – If you prefer a lighter option, a white wine such as Riesling or Fetească Albă will bring freshness and balance the richness of the stew.
Modern and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Craft beer – A blonde or amber beer, with rich aromas and slightly bitter notes, is perfect for highlighting the flavors of the meat and sauce.
Mineral water – Simple yet effective, sparkling mineral water is an excellent choice for cleansing the palate and keeping a refreshing sensation between bites.
Fresh lemonade – Lemonade with honey and a touch of mint offers a revitalizing contrast, making it a great non-alcoholic option that harmoniously complements the flavor of the stew.
These drinks bring either a traditional note or a modern twist to the meal, ensuring that every bite of pork stew with polenta is enjoyed to the fullest.
The most suitable cuts of pork for stew are leg, neck, or shoulder. These parts are tender enough to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. For extra richness, you can also use fattier cuts such as pork belly, which add depth to the taste.
How do you achieve a rich and flavorful sauce for stew?
The secret to a rich, aromatic sauce lies in slowly sautéing the onion until golden and caramelized. Adding garlic, tomato juice, and tomato paste completes the flavor, while a bay leaf and a few spoonfuls of meat broth intensify the aroma. Slow simmering over low heat allows all ingredients to blend perfectly.
What are the benefits of serving stew with polenta instead of other sides?
Polenta absorbs the rich sauce of the stew perfectly, offering a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat. It is a traditional, filling, and light choice that preserves the authenticity of the dish. In addition, it is a healthier option compared to other carbohydrate-rich sides, such as white bread or rice.
How can you adapt the recipe for a more intense flavor?
For a more intense taste, you can add ingredients such as dry red wine, smoked paprika, or fresh mushrooms to the sauce. These will add depth and complexity to the dish. Also, using concentrated meat broth instead of water will further intensify the flavors.
What types of pickles pair best with pork stew?
Assorted pickles, such as pickled cucumbers, peppers in vinegar, or sauerkraut, perfectly complement the richness of the stew. Their acidity balances the fat in the meat and adds a pleasant textural contrast. If you prefer a sweeter option, pickled beetroot is an excellent choice.
How can you turn the recipe into a healthier version?
For a healthier variation, fry the ingredients in olive oil instead of lard and use leaner cuts of meat, such as pork tenderloin. Also, replace traditional polenta with wholegrain cornmeal or add more vegetables to the stew for extra fiber and nutrients.
What spices are essential for achieving the authentic flavor of pork stew?
The essential seasonings include salt, pepper, sweet or smoked paprika, and a bay leaf. For a traditional taste, a little dried thyme or rosemary can be added, which pairs perfectly with pork. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill are indispensable for garnish and a touch of freshness.
How is pork stew best stored to maintain its flavor?
Pork stew keeps best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheating should be done slowly, on the stovetop over low heat, to prevent the sauce from separating. If you want to store it longer, it can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed gradually in the refrigerator before reheating.
What drinks pair best with pork stew?
The most suitable drinks include dry or semi-dry red wine, such as Fetească Neagră or Merlot, which perfectly complement the flavors of the meat. For a traditional option, țuica is an excellent aperitif. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, fresh lemonade or mineral water are refreshing alternatives.
How can you transform pork stew into a festive dish?
For a festive meal, you can add wild mushrooms or truffles to the sauce for extra refinement. Serve the pork stew with polenta in individual ceramic bowls, garnished with finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of sour cream. An elegant side dish, such as celery purée, can replace polenta for a more sophisticated touch.
