Pork in Tomato Sauce with Onions and Peppers

This recipe is a delightful combination of savory pork, tangy tomato sauce, and the sweet crunch of onions and bell peppers. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is flavorful and easy to prepare. The pork is tender and juicy, simmering in a rich tomato base. The onions add a subtle sweetness, while the peppers introduce a vibrant crunch. Seasoned with a hint of cumin, it offers a warm and aromatic touch. This dish can be served with boiled potatoes or even a side of rice. It's a flexible recipe, allowing for personal touches to make it your own. Minimal prep time and straightforward instructions make it accessible for any home cook. You'll love how the flavors come together in this comforting meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 250 g pork, cut into 1 cm x 1 cm cubes
• 1/2 jar tomato sauce
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 1 small bell pepper, diced
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Spices

• 1 tsp cumin

Preparation Time

35 minutes (including prep and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Start by cutting the pork into small cubes, roughly 1 cm in size. This helps it cook evenly and quickly.

2. Heat the Pan: Place a pan over low heat and add the pork cubes. You want to cook the pork slowly to maintain its tender texture.

3. Season the Pork: As the pork begins to cook, sprinkle it with salt, pepper, and cumin. These spices will infuse into the meat, giving it rich flavor.

4. Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking the pork for about 20 minutes until it is cooked through but still juicy.

5. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pork is cooking, slice the onions and dice the bell pepper into similarly sized pieces.

6. Add the Vegetables: Once the pork is almost done, add the onions and bell pepper to the pan.

7. Soften the Vegetables: Stir everything together and cook until the onions become translucent and the peppers are soft.

8. Incorporate the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce. If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add more sauce as desired.

9. Simmer the Mixture: Allow the sauce to heat through until it starts bubbling gently.

10. Final Touches: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. More salt or cumin can be added to enhance flavors.

11. Allow the Flavors to Meld: Let the dish simmer for a few more minutes on low heat, ensuring everything is well combined.

12. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with boiled potatoes, allowing the sauce to be soaked up by the starchy sides.

13. Optional Additions: You can add chili flakes for an extra kick, or some fresh herbs like parsley before serving for a touch of freshness.

14. Plate the Dish: Serve the pork and sauce over boiled potatoes, with a sprinkling of fresh herbs if using.

15. Gather at the Table: Encourage everyone to savor the tastes and aromas filling the kitchen.

16. Storage Instructions: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

17. Reheat with Care: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

18. Enjoy with Family: This dish is perfect for sharing with loved ones, fostering moments of connection around the table.

19. Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to substitute pork with chicken or tofu for a different taste and texture experience.

20. End with a Smile: Garnish with a lemon wedge to add a zesty finish before serving.

Tips

• Cumin Substitution: If you don't have cumin, try using coriander or caraway seeds for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Variations: Carrots or zucchini can be added for more vegetable variety.
• Control the Sauce Consistency: Add a splash of water or stock if the sauce becomes too thick.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approx. 320 kcal per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

Variations

• For a Spicy Twist: Add chili powder or fresh chilies to the sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace pork with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Herb Enhancements: Consider adding fresh basil or thyme for added aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Rice: Serve alongside a bowl of fluffy white or brown rice.
• Garnish Ideas: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color.

Best Places

1. La Bodega - A cozy spot known for its comforting pork dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Location: Calle de San Blas, Madrid, Spain.
2. The Rustic Spoon - Famous for hearty, home-style cooking; a must-try for pork and pepper aficionados. Location: 1245 Vine Street, Los Angeles, USA.
3. Bistro Vin Rouge - Offering a French twist on traditional recipes, this charming bistro will delight any pork lover. Location: 2010 W Main Street, Durham, USA.
4. Peper & Zout - Renowned for using fresh, local ingredients in its flavorful dishes. Location: Overtoom 109, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
5. Osteria Francescana - A world-class dining experience with innovative takes on Italian classics. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
6. Café de Flore - Perfect for enjoying a blend of French cuisine while savoring the quaint Parisian ambiance. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
7. Sabor Tico - A vibrant spot offering a unique blend of flavors in each of its dishes. Location: Avenida Central, San José, Costa Rica.
8. Kamikaze Kitchen - Known for specialty pork recipes and modern culinary techniques. Location: 909 Cherry Road, Tokyo, Japan.
9. The Greedy Pig - Delivers hearty meals with a focus on pork and bold flavors. Location: 58 North Street, Leeds, UK.
10. El Charrúa - Offers a touch of Latin cuisine in every dish. Location: Av. Rivadavia, Buenos Aires, Argentina.