Portuguese Pork Stew (Jardineira)

Portuguese Pork Stew (Jardineira)

Traditional Portuguese pork stew with an abundance of colorful vegetables, slowly cooked until tender and flavorful.

Total Time 1 hour 50 min
Servings 6
Difficulty Medium

Preparation

Jardineira de Porco is a traditional Portuguese dish that celebrates the abundance of fresh vegetables. This robust and nutritious stew is perfect for bringing the family together at the table, especially on colder days.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the meat

Cut the pork into medium cubes (about 3-4 cm). Season with salt and pepper.

2. Brown the meat

In a large pot or casserole, heat the olive oil and brown the meat in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot. Set aside the browned meat.

3. Sauté the aromatics

In the same pot, sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

4. Add liquids

Add the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release the caramelized bits. Let reduce for 2 minutes.

5. Add tomatoes and seasonings

Add the crushed peeled tomatoes, paprika, and bay leaves. Stir well.

6. Cook the meat

Return the meat to the pot, add the beef broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 45 minutes.

7. Add resistant vegetables

Add the carrots and potatoes. Continue cooking for 30 minutes.

8. Add delicate vegetables

In the last 15 minutes, add the green beans and peas. Cook until all vegetables are tender and the meat is fork-tender.

9. Finish

Adjust seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

  • The meat should be so tender it falls apart easily with a fork
  • Don’t rush the process - slow cooking is essential
  • You can add other vegetables like turnip greens or cabbage
  • Pairs well with white rice or homemade bread

Notes

Yield: 6 generous servings Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving Dish tastes even better the next day when flavors intensify.