When the weather turns cold, finding the right dinner recipe that’s both filling and comforting can feel like a real challenge. Between long work days and evening activities, most of us don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, but we still want something that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. That’s where this pork and mushroom stew comes in – it’s a reliable favorite that combines tender meat and earthy mushrooms in a rich broth. Best of all, it’s straightforward to make and works perfectly for both weeknight dinners and weekend family meals.
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Pork shoulder can be replaced with beef chuck or chicken thighs for different flavor profiles. These cuts are similarly suitable for slow cooking and will maintain the stew’s rich texture. Adjust cooking time as needed, with chicken requiring less time than beef.
Cremini mushrooms can be substituted with white button mushrooms, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms. Each variety offers a unique flavor and texture, but all will contribute to the earthy depth of the stew. Adjust quantities based on mushroom size and water content.
Half-and-half cream can be replaced with coconut milk for a dairy-free option or heavy cream for a richer consistency. Coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness, while heavy cream will create a thicker, more indulgent sauce. Use the same amount as called for in the original recipe.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 50-60 minutes |
| Total Time | 65-80 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1600-1800
- Protein: 120-140 g
- Fat: 90-100 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
Ingredients
For the stew:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 1 tsp sweet paprika (I use匈牙利紅椒粉)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or 1 tbsp red wine vinegar)
- 2 garlic cloves (freshly minced for best flavor)
- 1 shallot (finely diced)
- 1 cup low sodium beef broth
- 1.8 lb pork shoulder (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (crushed between your fingers to release aroma)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- 9 oz cremini mushrooms (roughly chopped for texture)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
For the garnish:
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (freshly chopped just before serving)
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Before starting to cook, make sure all your prep work is completed.
Cut the pork chuck into bite-sized pieces and set them aside.
Roughly chop the mushrooms.
Mince the garlic, finely chop the shallot, and chop the parsley.
Having these ingredients ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
In a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and butter over medium-high heat.
Place the pork pieces in a single layer and sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes.
Start stirring and continue to cook until the pork is browned on the outside but not fully cooked through.
Transfer the browned pork into a clean bowl, as it will finish cooking later.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Aromatics
Add the mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until they release their moisture.
Add the remaining oil and continue cooking until the mushrooms start to turn golden brown.
Stir in salt, pepper, rosemary, paprika, and balsamic vinegar to season the mushrooms.
Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to bring out their flavors.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Simmer
Return the seared pork and any of its released juices to the skillet.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir until it’s fully incorporated with the ingredients.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 35 minutes or until the pork becomes tender.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Once the meat is tender, add the half-and-half to the skillet and let it simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes.
This will help thicken the sauce.
If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of water to reach the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the salt to your preference.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish by sprinkling chopped parsley over the top.
Serve the creamy pork and mushroom sauce alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Enjoy your savory dish!
