When it comes to Italian cuisine, few regions evoke the diverse cultural influences found in FriuliVenezia Giulia. Nestled in the northeastern corner of Italy, this area boasts a culinary landscape that reflects its rich history and geographical diversity. Among its many traditional dishes, Italian Mustard Pork Stew, or “Stufato di Maiale alla Senape,” stands out as a culinary gem. This dish captures the heart and soul of FriuliVenezia Giulia cuisine with its bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting aroma.
Ingredients:
To create a delicious Italian mustard pork stew, you will need the following ingredients:
Pork shoulder: 2 pounds, cut into large cubes
Mustard: 2 tablespoons (preferably a sturdy, grainy mustard)
Onions: 2 large, finely chopped
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
White wine: 1 cup (a dry variety like Pinot Grigio or Friulano)
Chicken or vegetable broth: 2 cups
Bay leaves: 2
Thyme: 1 teaspoon (dried) or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
Salt and pepper: to taste
Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon (optional, for added texture)
Parsley: fresh, chopped for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat: Begin by seasoning the pork shoulder cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavybottomed pot or Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat. Add the pork cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing them until they are browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 57 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the vegetables have softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any flavorful browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce for about 34 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the seared pork to the pot and stir in the mustard, broth, bay leaves, thyme, and, if using, mustard seeds. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
5. Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The stew is ready when the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
6. Season and Serve: After cooking, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Remove the bay leaves, and if you used fresh thyme, discard the stems. Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
This Italian mustard pork stew embodies the rich culinary heritage of FriuliVenezia Giulia, offering a meal that combines robust flavors and comforting warmth. It pairs beautifully with polenta, crusty bread, or simply served over mashed potatoes, allowing you to enjoy each flavorful bite. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this exquisite dish that brings the rustic charm of northeast Italy right to your dining table!