Pork Stew with Polenta (Tocană cu Mămăligă)

Tocană cu Mămăligă, also known as Pork Stew with Polenta, is a traditional Romanian dish that combines tender pork stew with creamy polenta. This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Pork Stew with Polenta (Tocană cu Mămăligă)

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, brown the pork cubes over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft.
  3. Stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper, and cook for a few minutes.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the polenta by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a separate pot. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
  6. Serve the pork stew over the creamy polenta and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
450 per serving
Carbohydrates
30g
Protein
25g
Fat
28g

Supplies

Large pot Separate pot for polenta Whisk Wooden spoon

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve the Tocană cu Mămăligă with a side of pickles or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the pork stew while it simmers.

Cost

$20