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.
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
- In a large pot, brown the pork cubes over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper, and cook for a few minutes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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