Craving a hearty, comforting meal that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than this quick and easy Italian pork and bean stew. This recipe delivers a rich, savory experience in minimal time, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times; this dish emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing taste. The blend of tender pork, succulent beans, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. We've used readily available ingredients to make this recipe accessible to everyone.
Imagine succulent pieces of pork melting in your mouth, surrounded by perfectly cooked beans in a deeply flavorful broth. This satisfying stew is incredibly versatile; serve it with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce, or alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own bowl of this irresistible Italian Pork and Bean Stew.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Beans
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1
- Celery: 1 stalk
- Carrots: 2 small
- Salt
- Pepper
- Ground pork: 1 pound
- Italian seasoning
- Crushed tomatoes: 14 oz can
- Chicken broth
- Water
- Parsley
- Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Vegetables and Brown Pork
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pot.
- Add 1 diced onion, 1 stalk of celery, and 2 small diced carrots. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened.
- Add 1 pound of ground pork, breaking it up. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2. Combine Ingredients and Simmer
- Add 14 oz can of crushed tomatoes, chicken broth (amount to your preference), and the pre-cooked beans (including their juice).
- Rinse out the tomato can with some water and add it to the stew.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Prepare the Beans (if necessary)
- Prepare the beans. (If you haven't already made beans, cook them beforehand).
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve and garnish with Parmesan cheese.
Read more: Comforting Italian White Bean & Sausage Stew Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chicken broth to achieve your desired soup consistency.
- This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences - feel free to add other vegetables or seasonings.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! Using canned beans significantly reduces the cooking time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the stew.
2. What kind of pork should I use?
Shoulder or butt roast works best as it's flavorful and becomes tender during the cooking process. You can also use stew meat or even Italian sausage for a spicier kick.
This quick and easy Italian pork and bean stew is the perfect weeknight meal, offering big flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy the comforting warmth and satisfying taste of this delicious recipe, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Buon appetito!